Methane Emissions and State Climate Policy in New York and Maryland

Methane is over 80 times more potent than carbon dioxide in the short term, making its reduction critical to avoiding climate tipping points. This analysis examines how state and local governments in New York and Maryland are managing methane emissions from landfills and energy systems in the absence of national leadership. The discussion highlights the trade-offs between waste-to-energy incineration and landfilling, noting that landfills often leak more methane than reported. It also addresses policy disputes in New York regarding how the global warming potential of methane is measured and accounted for in state law.