By: Laurie Anderson, Colorado Field Organizer, Moms Clean Air Force
Date: December 18, 2024
About: Landfill Methane Rulemaking
To: Air Pollution Control Division
My name is Laurie Anderson. I am a Colorado Field Organizer with Moms Clean Air Force and live in Broomfield near the Front Range Landfill.
Much focus in Colorado has been on cutting methane from oil and gas operations. But landfills, as the third highest-emitting sector, are another potent pollution source. The good news is - landfill methane is one of the most solvable contributors to the climate crisis.
A strong landfill methane standard is vital to me as a mom because protecting our children and their future is my top priority. Children are especially vulnerable to air pollution since their lungs are still developing and they breathe air more rapidly. Exposure to pollutants like ozone can lead to long-term health issues, including asthma and reduced lung function. Additionally, controlling methane is crucial to our climate.
The Denver Metro area has been struggling with ozone pollution for years, and landfill emissions are a significant factor. Landfills also leak toxic air pollutants which can harm nearby communities. In particular, people living near landfills report health issues like burning eyes, headaches, and contaminated drinking water - disproportionately affecting communities of color. Reducing methane and other pollutants can help lower ozone concentrations and improve air quality.
Advancements in monitoring technologies can better show the full scope of landfill emissions. Front Range Landfill, which I live close to, reported over 388,000 metric tons in estimated methane emissions. Yet, planned surface emissions monitoring (SEM) protocols only cover about three-quarters of the actual waste area. And six large methane plumes have been detected by Carbon Mapper's satellite methane detection. This highlights the need for stronger rules to ensure proper leak detection and repair.
Reducing organic waste disposal remains a top priority. However, once waste reaches the landfill, we need strong rules that protect the environment and public health including: better gas capture and destruction; more robust monitoring and emissions transparency; improved landfill cover; and stronger enforcement and community accountability.
Colorado can be a national leader in landfill methane regulation, just as it has been in the oil and gas sector through strong, enforceable regulations that will protect our communities.
Thank you for your time.