A new environmental report reveals that methane emissions from U.S. landfills are soaring beyond federal limits, raising urgent concerns about their role in climate change. 🌎 According to nonprofit Industrious Labs, nearly two dozen landfills frequently exceeded regulations — with some emissions even higher than what operators reported to authorities. 📈
Methane, a greenhouse gas 80x more potent than CO2 in the short term, accounted for over 14% of U.S. emissions in 2022. 🏭 Landfills are now the third-largest source, trailing only oil/gas and livestock sectors. Scientists warn fast action is critical to curb rising temperatures.
🔥 \"It's time for the EPA to update its rules,\" says Katherine Blauvelt of Industrious Labs. Key recommendations include using advanced monitoring tech, regulating smaller landfills, and accelerating gas-capture systems. The EPA must reassess its policies by August under Biden’s methane crackdown — which already targets oil/gas industries and global partnerships.
🥡 Food waste is a major culprit, driving 58% of landfill methane leaks. The EPA suggests diverting organic waste to slash emissions. With climate impacts escalating, will stronger regulations come before the next heatwave? 🚨
