Oregon has advanced in addressing climate change with the adoption of the Climate Protection Program by the Environmental Quality Commission. According to the Oregon Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ), the program aims to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 50% by 2035 and achieve a 90% reduction by 2050. The program is designed to implement declining emissions caps, hold polluters accountable, and fund community-led projects.
Governor Kotek, following yesterday's unanimous decision, described the state's action as bold and consistent, emphasizing the importance of holding polluters accountable to safeguard the climate. The program, which had previously been invalidated due to procedural issues, has now been strengthened with input from the public and stakeholders, ensuring a balanced approach that aligns environmental objectives with economic well-being. Speaking with authority, the Governor declared, “The Climate Protection Program will keep polluters accountable and fund community investments that will reduce greenhouse gas emissions in Oregon,” according to the DEQ's announcement.
The DEQ has established a structured framework for the program, which involves allocating a decreasing number of emission credits to regulated entities each year. These entities, including fossil fuel suppliers and large manufacturing facilities, have the option to trade or bank these credits, creating a system for tracking and reducing their environmental impact. The first compliance period is set to begin on January 1, 2025, marking the start of the program's implementation.
Community Climate Investment projects are central to the program, designed to support initiatives that cater to the reduction of greenhouse gases while prioritizing environmental justice communities. Known for their crucial impact, DeQ Director Leah Feldon cited, “This program maintains Oregon’s commitment to addressing climate change, transitioning our economy to remain globally competitive, and investing in our most impacted communities across the entire state,” a result of the collaborative effort that is expected to impact Oregon's environmental policies and industrial development, as noted in the DEQ's annoucement.
