August 2016 – Methane Pollution from the Oil & Gas Industry

Gasping for Breath An analysis of the health effects from ozone pollution from the oil and gas industry

Posted under Reports on August 31st, 2016 by rarndt

When inhaled, ozone smog can impair lung function, trigger asthma attacks, and aggravate diseases such as bronchitis and emphysema, in some cases leading to premature death. Children, the elderly, and people with existing respiratory conditions are the most at risk from ozone smog pollution, which can drive them to stay indoors in the warmer months when smog levels are highest, robbing children of their summers and others of their ability to work and recreate out of doors. However, the health impacts associated with ozone smog produced by pollution solely from the oil and gas industry have never before been quantified.

Albuquerque Journal:NASA study adds fuel to rules on methane leaks

Posted under Editorials on August 26th, 2016 by rarndt

The bottom line of the NASA study is that 25 points of emission – gas wells, storage tanks, pipelines and processing plants – are responsible for about one-fourth of all the methane leaking into the atmosphere over the Four Corners.

And the point of a new Environmental Protection Agency rule, forthcoming Bureau of Land Management regulations and the NASA study is not to shut down oil and gas production, but to monitor equipment and mend leaks that likely hurt industry bottom lines as much as the environment.

NASA Four Corners Study

Posted under Reports on August 17th, 2016 by rarndt

Methane (CH₄) impacts climate as the second strongest anthropogenic greenhouse gas and air quality by influencing tropospheric ozone levels. Space-based observations have identified the Four Corners region in the Southwest United States as an area of large CH₄ enhancements

Cortez Journal: Methane Capture

Posted under Editorials on August 12th, 2016 by rarndt

We applaud the BLM and EPA for taking action, and LPEA for taking a step forward on a project that makes good economic and environmental sense, Though a step in the right direction, we do need a comprehensive approach to resolve some of our toughest air, land and water quality issues so, as with the Gold King mine spill, the public is not left footing the bill.

Denver Post op-ed: Federal methane guidelines modeled on Colorado’s rule, also necessary

Posted under Op-eds and Columns on August 5th, 2016 by rarndt

“And even though it’s still relatively new, positive results are already obvious. A survey of oil and gas operators in the state earlier this year, conducted by the Center for Methane Emissions Solutions, showed that Colorado’s rule has improved air quality and promoted worker safety. Also, many in industry are profiting because, instead of releasing natural gas into the atmosphere, it is being used to heat homes and power buildings.”