A new study using flyover methodology found methane emissions from oil and gas development activity in Colorado’s Front Range exceed estimates by regulators. “These discrepancies are substantial,” said lead author Gabrielle Petron, an atmospheric scientist with NOAA’s Cooperative Institute for Research in Environmental Sciences at the University of Colorado Boulder. “Emission estimates or ‘inventories’ are the primary tool that policy makers and regulators use to evaluate air quality and climate impacts of various sources, including oil and gas sources. If they’re off, it’s important to know.” [CIRES]
The Government Accountability Office conducted a study into the progress made and challenges to developing alternative aviation fuels. Although numerous government departments support alternative jet fuel production through various initiatives and incentives, market forces are one of the most powerful determining factors the report concluded. “However, even if the cost to produce alternative jet fuels is reduced, market factors may still determine the long-term success of the industry. The main market factors identified by stakeholders were (1) comparative value of competing end products, (2) feedstock prices, and (3) the costs of conventional jet fuels.” [GAO]
Shareholders and an environmental group filed a complaint with the SEC alleging inadequate investment and environmental risk disclosure has been made by the Dominion Resources subsidiary seeking to construct an LNG export plant on Chesapeake Bay in Cove Point Maryland. “In an effort to shed light on possible investment risks associated with a proposed liquefied natural gas (LNG) export terminal on the Chesapeake Bay, a shareholder and environmental advocates submitted an official complaint to the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) this morning. The filing details how Dominion Midstream, a new gas export subsidiary of the larger Dominion Resources, has potentially omitted or inadequately disclosed significant financial and environmental risks of its proposed liquefied natural gas export terminal. These advocates argue that potential investors and the greater public have a right to know about any risks as the company seeks permission to raise project funds through stock sales.” [Chesapeake Climate Action Network]
