Media Contact:
Justin Wasser, jwasser@earthworks.org, 202-887-1872×136
Background:
The House Select Committee on the Climate Crisis released its report today fulfilling a commitment made by the House Democratic caucus when they attained control over the chamber in 2018. The report recommends more robust climate rules for polluters, significant investment in infrastructure, and increased incentives for renewable energy technologies, among other policy proposals.
Statement of Earthworks Policy Director Lauren Pagel:
“With less than a decade left to avoid the most catastrophic consequences of climate change, now is the time for leadership. The House Select Committee’s plan for climate action provides a blueprint for jumpstarting our economy in the only responsible way we can, by protecting health and climate first.
“Methane pollution from the oil and gas industry is a growing threat to both our health and the climate. State and federal rules to cut methane are essential, in addition to policies that keep polluting fossil fuels in the ground, to avoid the next great public health crisis, and create a smarter, more resilient and more equitable America.”
FOR MORE INFORMATION
- House Select Committee on the Climate Crisis: Solving the Climate Crisis
- Earthworks’ optical gas images (OGI) of oil and gas methane pollution (taken in Colorado in 2019 by Earthworks Community Empowerment Project.)
- Analysis of 16 studies on methane pollution by the Environmental Defense Fund showing oil and gas methane emissions to be 60% higher than current government estimates.
- Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change: Policymakers summary and press release concerning 2018 report announcing carbon reduction targets necessary to keep global warming to 1.5 °C.
