Letter to the editor: We should all support pollution standards

The quality of our natural world and the health and well-being of human beings are inextricably linked. Climate change represents a threat to these at both a local and global level. Methane is the primary energy component in natural gas, used for everything from home heating to generating electricity, but it is also a powerful greenhouse gas affecting climate change. That’s why it makes sense to strengthen and improve the way natural gas facilities in Pennsylvania detect, repair and limit methane leaks from their operations.

Curbing methane leaks from oil and gas extraction remains the quickest, most affordable opportunity to eliminate pollution. In addition to helping reduce harmful emissions, preventing leaks reduces the waste of a valuable natural resource.

The Pennsylvania Environmental Quality Board is now advancing a draft rule to limit pollution and waste from oil and gas sites in the commonwealth. This action will put us on track to join other top gas-producing economies in enacting standards to support a more sustainable industry.

Those who pride themselves as conservationists, as well as those who want to see this remain an important industry in our commonwealth, should support this proposal as a practical way to protect jobs, people and nature.

Billie (Bill) R. DeWalt

Fox Chapel