As the country works to reduce substances known to effect air quality the need for mandatory carbon emissions reporting grows. Almost all the materials known to destroy the ozone layer and thus contribute to the problem of global warming arise from the action of man.
The nationwide comprehensive plan for mandatory carbon emissions reporting announced by the EPA is aimed at controlling carbon dioxide and other greenhouse gases that adversely impact the ozone layer and lead to global warming. The government agency has determined that carbon dioxide is a danger to the general public and, as such, requires strict regulation.
Mandatory carbon emissions reporting is required of manufacturers and facilities that use refrigerant gases and other regulated substances. These gases are known to have the potential to cause global warming. The gases listed in the government regulation are carbon dioxide, nitrous oxide, methane, hydrofluorocarbons, sulfur hexafluoride, perfluorocarbonbs, and fluorinated gases like hydrofluorinated ethers and nitrogen trifluoride.
It is expected that the mandatory carbon emissions reporting plan will take effect in 2010 but that the first annual report will not be due until the following year. Facilities impacted include those with refrigeration and AC systems, HVAC systems and those companies that are in the auto manufacturing industry.
In addition to the mandatory carbon emissions reporting requirements, the US Clean Air Act requires those facilities that are impacted to keep a close eye on harmful substances such as refrigerant gases. There are significant fines and other penalties awaiting for those who do not conform.
There are two ways in which your business can address mandatory carbon emissions reporting. Monitoring and tracking can be done manually and the necessary reports completed by hand. Since this manner is time consuming and has a high risk for errors, many companies use software programs and web-based applications that automatically monitor, track and coordinate all necessary reporting requirements. This ensures that required reports are fully complete and submitted on time. Automatic monitoring is also more cost effective and efficient for companies with more than one system or facilities in different locations.
Mandatory carbon emissions reporting will definitely lower this country’s greenhouse gas emissions. The government has said that 13,000 facilities are responsible for between 85 and 90% of the harmful substances in the air.
Mandatory carbon emissions reporting is one way the United States is ensuring that businesses reduce their carbon footprint and ensure healthy air for everyone. Similar efforts are also being taken worldwide as a means of addressing the challenge of climate change.