CARB Improves Cap and Trade Program

The California Air Resources Board (CARB) has recently approved new amendments to its Cap and Trade Program to continue the efforts of decreasing the emission of greenhouse gases (GHG) and improving air quality, especially in disadvantaged communities.

The current changes to the program will serve to carry on its goal of providing cleaner air and fighting climate change. Among these new amendments was the decision to extend the program through 2030 and add new focus to improving the air quality within local communities. This will be done through the development of community emission reduction plans in neighborhoods with poor air quality. Other changes include linking the Cap and Trade program with Ontario, Canada (the second Canadian jurisdiction to join California’s efforts) and possibly expanding the program to Oregon.

The Cap and Trade Program began in 2013 to aid the goals of the California Global Warming Solutions Act of 2006 (AB 32) in reducing greenhouse gas emissions to 1990 levels by 2020. The state is currently on track to accomplish this goal. The newly established amendments and expansion of the Cap and Trade Program will further efforts to continue decreasing GHG emissions and fight climate change.