Natural gas, like other energy sources, has an impact on the environment.  This page explores policy issues associated with the environmental footprint of natural gas, including emissions. NGSA recognizes that the use of fossil fuels leads to increased concentrations of greenhouse gases in the atmosphere, which contribute to climate change.

  • Energy policies must allow consumers to reap the benefits of our natural gas resources, ensuring that no consumers are left behind as we transition to a cleaner and affordable energy future.
  • NGSA supports the ambition of achieving economy-wide net zero GHG emissions by 2050.
  • NGSA advocates for rules, policies, and technologies that protect the environment while allowing our members to continue to supply electric utilities, manufacturers, businesses and households with affordable and reliable natural gas.

Policy Issues

Modernizing the National Environmental Protection Act (NEPA)

NEPA was enacted to ensure awareness of the environmental impact of major federal projects.  NGSA advocates for clear timelines and a clearly-defined scope for the effective implementation of NEPA by federal agencies, states and tribes so that needed infrastructure for economic growth can proceed with greater regulatory certainty. Some recent related documents appear below, for more please visit our Resources pages and use the “search” and “tag” functions.

 

Modernization of Section 401, Clean Water Act

NGSA advocates for clear language, timelines and scopes on regulatory permitting around Section 401 of the Clean Water Act.

Addressing Methane Emissions

The natural gas industry is lowering cost for the consumer, maintaining grid reliability and actively reducing methane emissions from all parts of our supply chain.  NGSA members are committed to reducing methane emissions and making significant investments in processes and technologies to address emissions and reduce flaring.  They are improving the quality of methane data to achieve greater transparency and promote better understanding of the challenges of managing methane emissions.

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Carbon Emissions and Carbon Pricing

Natural gas has played a significant role in reducing CO2 emissions from the U.S. power sector to 25-year lows because of its relatively low carbon content.  NGSA members believe that adopting a price on carbon can further drive down carbon emissions, while protecting consumers and maintaining competition and innovation in power markets. Some recent related documents appear below, for more please visit our Resources pages and use the “search” and “tag” functions.