Oregon Sets Climate Goals to Cut Emissions in Half by 2035 with New Climate Protection Program

With the Environmental Quality Commission’s acceptance of the Climate Protection Program, Oregon has made progress in combating climate change. The program, according to the Oregon Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ), intends to cut greenhouse gas emissions by 90% by 2050 and 50% by 2035. The program’s objectives are to fund community-led projects, enforce declining emissions caps, and punish polluters responsible.

After yesterday’s unanimous decision, Governor Kotek characterized the state’s stance as bold and consistent, stressing the need to hold polluters accountable in order to protect the planet. With public and stakeholder participation, the program—which had previously been declared unlawful due to procedural issues—has been reinforced, guaranteeing a balanced approach that balances environmental goals with economic well-being. Speaking authoritatively, the Governor stated that, in accordance with the DEQ statement, the Climate Protection Program will hold polluters responsible and provide funding for community projects that will lower greenhouse gas emissions in Oregon.

The program has a defined framework set up by the DEQ, which entails distributing fewer emission credits to regulated firms annually. By trading or banking these credits, these organizations—such as providers of fossil fuels and sizable industrial plants—can establish a mechanism for monitoring and mitigating their environmental impact. The program’s implementation is scheduled to commence on January 1, 2025, with the first compliance period.

The program’s core projects are Community Climate Investments, which are intended to assist programs that prioritize environmental justice communities while addressing greenhouse gas reduction. “This program maintains Oregon’s commitment to addressing climate change, transitioning our economy to remain globally competitive, and investing in our most impacted communities throughout the entire state,” said DeQ Director Leah Feldon, citing the program’s critical impact. The collaborative effort is expected to have an impact on Oregon’s industrial development and environmental policies, according to the DEQ’s announcement.

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