State adopts unique rule to combat climate change

In an effort to protect all that Washington has to offer future generations, the Washington Department of Ecology is launching a new plan to combat climate change.

After months of stakeholder meetings, and public review and input, Ecology adopted on September 15 a first-of-its-kind clean air rule that caps and reduces carbon pollution.

Scientists have known for more than a decade that carbon pollution is the primary cause of climate change. Recognizing the need to take action, Gov. Jay Inslee in 2015 directed Ecology to cap and reduce carbon pollution under Washington’s Clean Air Act.

Ecology’s rule goes into effect Oct. 17, 2016.

Under the new rule, businesses that are responsible for 100,000 metric tons of carbon pollution annually will be required to cap and then gradually reduce their emissions.

If a business cannot limit its own emissions, it has other options. It could develop a project that reduces carbon pollution in Washington, such as an energy efficiency program. Businesses could also comply by buying carbon credits from others or from other approved carbon markets.

The plan relies on businesses to trade independently among themselves and with other markets. All emissions reductions, projects and trading would be validated by independent auditors with oversight from Ecology.