Description: In 2013 the Bay Area Air Quality Management District (BAAQMD) adopted a regional climate action plan. In 2017 the plan became the basis for BAAQMD including a climate program in its federally mandated 5-year Clean Air Plan. The first GHG rulemaking out of the Clean Air Plan is the Basin-wide Methane Strategy. Implementation of the 2017 plan began with workshops in 2018 and draft rule development in 2019. These workshops and rule-making focused on regulations to reduce methane emissions from leaks, refinery operations, organic materials handling, composting operations, and other stationary sources.
Goal: Regional air districts adopt Climate Action Plans that lead to enforceable measures that reduce methane emissions
Measurement: Percent decline in methane emission from stationary sources
Time to Implement: Several years
Links:
BAAQMD Commits to Regional Climate Protection Strategy
http://www.baaqmd.gov/~/media/files/communications-and-outreach/publications/news-releases/2013/climateres_131106.pdf
Final 2017 Clean Air Plan Volume 1
http://www.baaqmd.gov/~/media/files/planning-and-research/plans/2017-clean-air-plan/attachment-a_-proposed-final-cap-vol-1-pdf.pdf?la=en
Final 2017 Clean Air Plan Volume 2
https://www.baaqmd.gov/~/media/files/planning-and-research/plans/2017-clean-air-plan/attachment-a_proposed-final-cap-volume-2-pdf.pdf?la=en
Additional Information:
During the rulemaking phase of implementing the plan, the BAAQMD collected data from many kinds of facilities showing that methane emissions are 2-10 times what has been reported. Ongoing work includes constructing a much more accurate methane inventory for the region.
Contact Info:
Victor Douglas
Bay Area Air Quality Management District
Manager, Community Engagement and Policy
(415) 749-4752