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Greenhouse Gases

At a Glance

According to Environmental Protection Agency GHG statistics:

  • In 2007, the U.S. emitted 7.2 billion metric tons of GHGs
  • 2007 GHG emissions represented a 17% increase since 1990
  • CO2 from burning fossil fuels accounted for 86% of 2007 emissions

Federal agencies are required to inventory and manage greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions to meet Federal goals and mitigate climate change.

Secretary of Energy Steven Chu outlined the risk of GHGs and climate change in a July 2009 testimony before the U.S. Senate Committee on Environment and Public Works. He began the testimony by stating, "We face an unprecedented threat to our very way of life from climate change."

Resources within this section outline:

  • Basics: Overview of greenhouse gases to help Federal agencies understand key terms, definitions, and best management practices.

  • Federal Requirements: Goals and requirements for agency greenhouse gas management as outlined in Federal initiatives and executive orders.

  • Guidance: Ongoing guidance activities conducted by FEMP and the Federal Government, as well as common protocols for calculating greenhouse gas inventories.

  • Technical Assistance and Training: FEMP services, technical assistance, and training available to help Federal agencies calculate and manage their greenhouse gas emissions.

  • Resources: Publications and Web sites related to greenhouse gas emission accounting, reporting, and management.

  • Contacts: FEMP and U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) national laboratory contacts related to Federal greenhouse gas emissions.

The FEMP Greenhouse Gas Program Overview (PDF 879 KB) summarizes Federal requirements and FEMP services surrounding greenhouse gas management. Download Adobe Reader.