New Mexico Takes Bold Action to Lead on Climate

(SANTA FE, NM) New Mexico Gov. Michelle Lujan Grisham today issued a sweeping executive order aimed at reducing greenhouse gas emissions statewide by at least 45 percent by 2030. The order also directs state agencies to develop policies that will encourage clean energy deployment, curb climate pollution and cut energy wasted from the oil and gas industry through the intentional and unintentional release of methane, a powerful pollutant.

“The Governor’s bold new order is a commitment that New Mexico will rise to meet the climate challenge. Getting enforceable, pollution-reducing policies on the books will help protect the lungs and the livelihood of New Mexicans who deserve clean air and a stable environment.

“Increased water scarcity, more intense wildfires and prolonged droughts are becoming the new climate reality in New Mexico. Addressing these serious problems takes leadership and decisive action, the very kind that Governor Lujan Grisham made clear with her order today.

“Her vision recognizes that New Mexico’s future lies in cleaner energy sources, and that to achieve the reductions promised, New Mexico must evaluate market-based solutions. By prioritizing actions to cut oil and gas emissions, the Governor is also seizing an opportunity to protect air quality and limit energy waste that could otherwise increase funding for education.”

· Fred Krupp, President, Environmental Defense Fund
 

The executive order endorses the goals of the Paris Agreement, and adds New Mexico to the U.S. Climate Alliance, a coalition of now 19 Governors committed to implementing policies to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. The order also sets critical targets for reductions in pollution, committing New Mexico to achieving at least 45 percent below 2005 levels by 2030 and directs the state’s regulatory agencies to enact comprehensive, statewide regulations to dramatically cut methane pollution and waste from the oil and gas industry.