Synopsis

The U.S. currently finds itself in the midst of an energy boom, driven by technological advances in the extraction of oil and natural gas. Our domestic energy resources, and the self-sufficiency they can bring, are the envy of much of the world. Yet we must also weigh the consequences of our actions on the natural environment; the decisions we are making will have long-lasting impacts on air quality, water scarcity, and the climate. We can balance economic growth and reductions in greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions, but to do so we must correct the various market failures that have allowed for unchecked emissions of carbon pollution and other GHGs.

This testimony, given on March 6, 2013 before the U.S. House of Representatives Energy and Commerce Subcommittee on Energy and Power, explores ways to reduce methane leakage from U.S. natural gas systems.