A recent report from Vermont’s Natural Agency indicates that the state is unlikely to meet its legally binding greenhouse gas reduction targets set by the 2020 Global Warming Solutions Act. The Act mandates a 26% reduction in emissions by 2025, with further targets of 40% by 2030 and 80% by 2050, all compared to 1990 levels.
In 2022, emissions measured about 8.25 million tonnes of CO2, just under one million tonnes above the 2025 target. Transportation and heating are identified as the primary emission sources, heavily reliant on fossil fuels. Forecasts suggest that by 2026, emissions may exceed the 2025 target by around 500,000 tonnes.
A lawsuit by the Conservation Law Foundation aimed at holding the agency accountable was dismissed by a state judge, who argued it was premature to file under the Global Warming Solutions Act. The agency acknowledged it may not meet the 2025 emissions target but is committed to improving accountability and transparency in its climate actions. Advocacy groups express concern over the lack of effective policies to meet emissions goals.
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