Climate Lab Still Doesn’t “Get It”

The December 15^th Seattle Times front page article “All the state’s top climate polluters hand in emission allowances—except one” demonstrates the paper's Climate Lab still doesn’t get it.  That the claim by Joel Creswell, who manages Ecology’s climate pollution reduction program, suggests he’s unaware of a 2022 Energy Information Agency (EIA) detailing the sources for the state’s 74.4 million metric tons (MMT) of CO2 emissions.

The EIA reported emissions included 42.5 MMT from transportation, 11.5 MMT from industrial use, 9.5 MMT for electric power, 6.2 MMT residential, and 5.0 MMT commercial.  Thus, Creswell’s claim “Of the 97 major polluters in the state, 96 have turned in their share of the allowances” raises all sorts of questions. 

The 96 presumably included the state’s five oil refineries, who emitted 6 MMT. and the 9.5 MMT from generators burning coal and natural gas for electric power.  Most of the allowances for the 11.5 MMT industrial emissions were probably from those making cement (a ton of CO2 for a ton of cement).  However, even those buying the allowances presumably just increased the price of their product to reflect the cost.

Creswell made an issue of the Cosmo Specialty Fibers and how the state could “theoretically fine the company $8.6 million a day” for not paying despite the plant being closed for three years.  That they will continue to require they pay for emissions even if the plant never reopens. That every other "polluter" submitted their share of allowances as required, 19,526,071 in all.  A number which will be reduced in the future to increase the cost and encourage further emission reductions.

The bottom line is Creswell claims “Such high levels of high levels of particapation are a good sign the market is working as intended”.  Apparently not recognizing the Climate Pollution Reduction Program is not getting allowances from those emitting more than half the state’s CO2’s emissions. 

Drivers will pay more for the fuel for their vehicles yet pay nothing for the 20 lbs. of CO2 emitted by burning a gallon of gas. (22 lbs. from diesel).  Those using electric power to warm their homes, cook their food, or charge their EV batteries will pay more. However, those burning natural gas in residential areas to heat their homes or in commercial areas where they work, won’t.

Thus, it’s highly unlikely future allowance price increases due to reduced number will significantly reduce the state's CO2 emissions. It’s unfortunate those selling the allowances don’t recognize that reality.  Even worse, the Seattle Times Climate Lab, the paper's initiative that explores the effects of climate change in the Pacific Northwest,” abets them.