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US EPA delays methane restrictions for oil and gas

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By illuminem briefings

· 3 min read


illuminem summarises for you the essential news of the day. Read the full piece on The Hill or enjoy below:

🗞️ Driving the news: The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has delayed enforcement of new methane restrictions targeting emissions from oil and gas drilling
The interim final rule, released this week under the Trump administration, grants companies an 18-month reprieve before they must comply with pollution control requirements
The EPA is also reviewing whether to revoke the regulation entirely, citing “unworkable” provisions

🔭 The context: The original rule, enacted under the Biden administration, aimed to curb methane — a potent greenhouse gas — and toxic air pollutants from fossil fuel operations
It formed a key part of the U.S. strategy to meet climate commitments under the Global Methane Pledge
The current delay signals a broader deregulatory agenda by the Trump administration, which has placed the methane rule on a list of Biden-era policies under threat of repeal

🌍 Why it matters for the planet: Methane is over 80 times more powerful than CO₂ over a 20-year timeframe, making rapid reductions vital for near-term climate goals
Delaying controls risks increased emissions from one of the most climate-damaging sectors
It may also weaken U.S. credibility in international climate forums and hinder progress toward global methane reduction targets

⏭️ What's next: Legal and political challenges are expected, as environmental groups and states may sue to restore the rule
Industry lobbying will intensify as the EPA reviews the regulation for potential rollback
A final decision on whether to retain or reverse the rule could come within the next year, influencing federal climate policy and enforcement strategies

💬 One quote: “Delaying implementation will simply give a handout to the worst actors who would be able to continue their polluting ways with zero consequences or accountability to neighboring communities.” – Mahyar Sorour, Sierra Club

📈 One stat: The oil and gas sector accounts for nearly 30% of U.S. methane emissions, according to the EPA

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illuminem's editorial team, providing you with concise summaries of the most important sustainability news of the day. Follow us on Linkedin, Twitter​ & Instagram

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