New Methane Emission Rules Will Help Create a Better Future for Birds and People

GLASGOW (November 2, 2021) -- The U.S. announced that it would not only restore limits on methane emissions from new oil and gas projects, but would also apply regulations to existing oil and gas infrastructure that was built before 2015. Methane is the second-biggest contributor to climate change, behind carbon dioxide, and methane from the oil and gas supply chain is often co-emitted with harmful air pollutants.

“Birds are telling us that we need to take urgent action to reduce emissions and protect our communities and wildlife from the worst effects of climate change, and we can’t do that without seriously addressing methane emissions,” said Michael Obeiter, senior director of federal climate strategy for the National Audubon Society. “Restoring and expanding limits on methane, alongside taking bold action to reduce carbon emissions, will go a long way toward realizing a cleaner future for us all.”

A 2019 report from the National Audubon Society found that two-thirds of North American bird species will be vulnerable to extinction if global temperatures are allowed to rise at the current rate. Reducing emissions from greenhouse gases like carbon dioxide and methane will help alleviate some of the worst effects of climate change.

About Audubon
The National Audubon Society protects birds and the places they need, today and tomorrow. Audubon works throughout the Americas using science, advocacy, education, and on-the-ground conservation. State programs, nature centers, chapters, and partners give Audubon an unparalleled wingspan that reaches millions of people each year to inform, inspire, and unite diverse communities in conservation action. A nonprofit conservation organization since 1905, Audubon believes in a world in which people and wildlife thrive. Learn more at www.audubon.org and on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram @audubonsociety.