In October of 2009, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) released the Mandatory Reporting of Greenhouse Gases Rule, 40 CFR Part 98. The rule required any facilities that emit 25,000 metric tons or more per year of greenhouse gases to submit an annual report. The purpose was to collect accurate and timely emissions data to be used in future policy decisions.
In order to aid facilities in the reporting of this data, the EPA launched an electronic greenhouse gas reporting tool. The tool was launched on August 22, 2011 and is abbreviated e-GGRT. It allows 28 industrial sectors to submit their 2010 annual greenhouse gas pollution data electronically. Before the launch, the program was tested on more than 1,000 stakeholders, including industry associations, states and non-governmental organizations (NGOs). A summary of the input and responses of this testing can be found here.
The tool also acts as an information portal to the public, providing information about large sources of greenhouse gas pollution. The EPA anticipates that industries can use the data collected to find ways to decrease emissions, increase efficiency, and save money.
Approximately 7,000 large industrial greenhouse gas emitters and suppliers are required to submit the reports for 2010. These include power plants, petroleum refineries and landfills. Facilities were required to register for greenhouse gas reporting by August 1, 2011. However, the EPA is encouraging late registration. The first round of reporting for the year 2010 is due September 30, 2011 and the EPA hopes to publish the information by the end of 2011.
To register for greenhouse gas reporting and access the electronic reporting tool, click here.
To view the entire Part 98 rule, click here.