The California Air Resources Board approved a new regulation aimed at curbing emissions of the powerful greenhouse gas that regularly escapes from oil and gas operations. The new rule is the most comprehensive of its kind in the country.
Methane is the main component of commercially distributed natural gas and a byproduct of oil extraction. The new regulation is expected to reduce methane leaks from oil and gas operations in California. Locating and repairing leaks in oil and gas systems will provide additional benefits in reducing smog-causing chemicals, because the same leaks often release air toxins and volatile organic compounds such as benzene.
California’s new air regulation requires quarterly monitoring of methane emissions from oil and gas wells, natural gas processing facilities, compressor stations and other equipment used in the processing and delivery of oil and natural gas.
For more information, visit www.arb. ca.gov or call (916) 322-2990.
