State regulators just took a big step in the fight against climate change.
The New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) finalized a new greenhouse gas (GHG) reporting rule, creating a mandatory program to track pollution sources across the state. Officials say the program will offer critical insight into who’s polluting—and how much—so New York can better target efforts to cut emissions.
A key milestone for climate action
“This data collection is critical to the State’s ongoing efforts to protect our environment and improve the health and quality of life of all New Yorkers,” said DEC Commissioner Amanda Lefton. She added that the program will safeguard the state’s progress even as federal regulations face potential rollbacks.
The rule requires large facilities, fuel suppliers, and other major emitters to report their annual GHG emissions starting in June 2027. Some facilities will also need third-party verification of their data.
Importantly, the program does not require companies to reduce their emissions—it’s focused on data collection only. But officials say that data will guide future policy, especially in communities already overburdened by pollution.
What must be reported
Entities that will have to report include:
- Facilities emitting 10,000+ metric tons of CO₂ equivalents per year (like power plants, landfills, and industrial sites)
- Fuel suppliers and waste haulers
- Electric utilities and importers
- Suppliers of agricultural lime and fertilizer
- Wastewater treatment and animal waste storage operations
The program was proposed in March and shaped by more than 3,000 public comments. DEC made changes in response, including giving businesses more flexibility during the first two years and better aligning terms with federal guidelines.
Groundwork for a cleaner future
DEC also released its 2025 Statewide Greenhouse Gas Emissions Report. It shows that emissions in 2023 were about 354 million metric tons—roughly 14% below 1990 levels. That puts the state on track toward its targets under the Climate Leadership and Community Protection Act.
Officials say the new reporting program will help refine those estimates and track future progress more accurately.
New York’s broader climate agenda aims for a zero-emissions economy by 2050. It includes major investments in clean energy, building efficiency, transportation, and waste reduction—along with at least 35% of funding directed to disadvantaged communities.
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