For many residents of Rhode Island, the latest news on greenhouse gas emissions is a personal concern. The state’s efforts to reduce emissions and set an example for other states have been overshadowed by an increase in emissions between 2017 and 2018. According to an analysis by air quality specialists at the state Department of Environmental Management, total greenhouse gas emissions grew by nearly 8.2% during this period.
This increase has significant implications for the state’s communities, particularly those already experiencing the effects of a warming planet. The increase in emissions is largely driven by the transportation sector and electricity consumption.
Driven by these increases, the state’s total emissions have risen to 1.8% over the 1990 baseline. This surge jeopardizes the state’s chances of meeting a mandate in its Act on Climate law to reduce emissions by 10% by 2020. The 2019 emissions data, which is currently being analyzed, would have to show a significant decrease to meet the goal.
DEM Acting Director Terry Gray said emissions may continue to increase in 2019 before decreasing in 2020, due to reduced travel during the pandemic.
Understanding the Increase in Emissions
Gray said he wasn’t surprised there was an increase between 2017 and 2018, as nothing significant was being done at the time to cut emissions. The signing of the Act on Climate created a sense of urgency, Gray added. Democratic Gov. Dan McKee signed the Act on Climate nearly a year ago to set mandatory, enforceable emissions reduction goals.
The law aims to achieve net-zero economy-wide emissions by 2050, which means the number of greenhouse gases produced is no more than the amount removed from the atmosphere. According to the Department of Environmental Management, emissions increased from 12.7 million metric tons in 2017 to 13.7 million metric tons in 2018, resulting in an 8.18% change.
Gov. McKee said in a statement that Rhode Island is already seeing the tangible results of climate change, including higher temperatures and more frequent, intense storms. He called on state agencies to deliver urgent remedies. McKee said last week that he wants the offshore wind to supply more of the state’s power to cement its position as a hub for the industry, reduce greenhouse gas emissions, and set an example for other states looking to mitigate the effects of a warming planet.
He proposed procuring an additional 600 megawatts of offshore wind, enough to power about 340,000 homes annually.
Comparing Emissions with Neighboring States
During the same timeframe, neighboring states Connecticut and Massachusetts reported smaller increases in emissions, 2.7%, and 0.68% respectively. Emissions increased in most major sectors in Rhode Island, such as transportation, electricity consumption, residential heating, industry, commercial heating, and waste. The comparison with neighboring states highlights the need for Rhode Island to reassess its strategies for reducing emissions and achieving its climate goals.
Looking Ahead
As Rhode Island moves forward, it is essential to monitor the state’s progress in reducing emissions and achieving its climate goals. The upcoming analysis of the 2019 emissions data will be crucial in determining whether the state is on track to meet its targets. With the offshore wind industry poised to play a significant role in reducing greenhouse gas emissions, the state’s efforts to procure additional offshore wind power will be worth watching. As Gov. McKee and state agencies work to deliver urgent remedies and reduce emissions, the people of Rhode Island will be looking for tangible results and a cleaner, more sustainable future.
What to watch next is how the state’s agencies and officials respond to the increase in emissions and work towards achieving the goals set out in the Act on Climate. The success of Rhode Island’s efforts to reduce greenhouse gas emissions will depend on the state’s ability to implement effective strategies and collaborate with neighboring states to address the challenges of a warming planet. As the state moves forward, it is crucial to prioritize clean air, clean water, conservation, and recycling, and to support initiatives that promote sustainability and reduce waste. By doing so, Rhode Island can set an example for other states and create a better future for its residents.
