Developing a facility-level reporting programme for sources of non-CO2 gases: the United States experience

Many countries are considering opportunities to develop mandatory greenhouse gas (GHG) reporting programmes to support policy analysis. A primary focus of these reporting programmes is reporting of CO2 emissions. However, it would be a mistake to overlook non-CO2 emission sources. Recognizing the importance of these emissions, the U.S. GHG Reporting Program (GHGRP) covers major sources of CH4, N2O and fluorinated gases. The GHGRP includes reporting of non-CO2 emissions from adipic and nitric acid production, several industries emitting fluorinated gases, landfills, manure management, coal mines, petroleum and natural gas systems and wastewater. Some sources of non-CO2 emissions can be incorporated in a facility-level reporting programme with relative ease (e.g. aluminum production). For other sources, developing a facility-level reporting programme can pose challenges. The article reviews the sources of non-CO2 emissions most amenable to facility-level reporting considering existing quantification methods and the size and number of reporters, as well as challenges associated with these sources. Finally, relative cost-effectiveness of reporting ($/ton CO2e reported) is presented for facilities with non-CO2 compared with facilities reporting primarily combustion and process-related CO2 emissions. Throughout the article key issues are highlighted that may be useful for policymakers to consider when developing their own GHG reporting programme.