Geoscience Reference
In-Depth Information
Chapter 3
P
RESIDENTIAL
M
EMORANDUM
:
P
OWER
S
ECTOR
C
ARBON
P
OLLUTION
S
TANDARDS
Environmental Protection Agency
SUBJECT: Power Sector Carbon Pollution Standards
With every passing day, the urgency of addressing climate change
intensifies. I made clear in my State of the Union address that my
Administration is committed to reducing carbon pollution that causes climate
change, preparing our communities for the consequences of climate change,
and speeding the transition to more sustainable sources of energy.
The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has already undertaken such
action with regard to carbon pollution from the transportation sector, issuing
Clean Air Act standards limiting the greenhouse gas emissions of new cars and
light trucks through 2025 and heavy duty trucks through 2018. The EPA
standards were promulgated in conjunction with the Department of
Transportation, which, at the same time, established fuel efficiency standards
for cars and trucks as part of a harmonized national program. Both agencies
engaged constructively with auto manufacturers, labor unions, States, and
other stakeholders, and the resulting standards have received broad support.
These standards will reduce the Nation's carbon pollution and dependence on
oil, and also lead to greater innovation, economic growth, and cost savings for
American families.
