NPCA Statement on the BLM Natural Gas Waste Rule

“Under existing rules, which haven’t been updated in more than 30 years, venting, flaring and leaking of natural gas results in the spewing of millions of tons of toxic pollution into the air each year, harming national park air quality, wildlife and park visitors. National Parks Conservation Association strongly supports the proposed guidelines to curb natural gas waste and pollution proposed today by the Bureau of Land Management (BLM).

“These rules will help reduce pollution and flaring at many Western parks adjacent to BLM lands, including Mesa Verde National Park, Chaco Culture National Historical Park, and Arches National Park.

“Additionally, BLM’s rules are a great step forward, as they will apply to existing, as well as new sources of pollution. Regulating existing sources is crucial, as it is estimated that by 2018, 90% of all methane pollution will come from sources already present today.”

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About National Parks Conservation Association (NPCA) Since 1919, the nonpartisan National Parks Conservation Association has been the leading voice in safeguarding our national parks. NPCA and its more than one million supporters work together to protect and preserve our nation’s natural, historical, and cultural heritage for future generations. For more information, visit www.npca.org.