Research Outline

US Greenhouse Emissions Reduction Goals

Goals

The goal is to find out which US states have set goals for greenhouse gas emissions reductions, along with what programs they have in place to reach those goals.

Early Findings

  • California aims to reduce its greenhouse gas emissions to 1990 levels by 2020. It has various programs such as the Cap-and-Trade program that puts various limits on emissions.
  • California's next goals after reaching 1990 levels is reaching 40% below 1990 levels by 2030 and 80% below by 2050.
  • According to the California Air Resources Board, unless the state speeds up the reduction, it won't actually reach 40% below until 2061.
  • New York aims to reduce emissions to 40% below 1990 levels, have 50% of its energy generation from renewable sources, and see a 23% decrease in energy consumption in buildings from 2012 levels all by 2030.
  • Going even further, New York intends to have 100% carbon-free electricity by 2040 and be completely net-zero carbon emissions by 2050.
  • New York implements the most aggressive vehicle emissions restrictions that are allowable by federal law.
  • Pennsylvania plans to reduce emissions to 26% of their 2005 levels by 2025 and 80% of the 2005 levels by 2050.
  • Pennsylvania's strategies to reduce emissions include increase the use of renewable energy sources, using agricultural best practices, identify ecosystem vulnerabilities, and bolster emergency preparedness and response.