Washington’s innovative Clean Air Rule recognized with Climate Excellence Award

Washington has been a longstanding leader on environmental and climate change issues.

That trend continues today, and the Office of the Governor and Ecology were jointly recognized by the American Carbon Registry with the Climate Excellence Award.

Ecology's Air Quality Program team developed the

Clean Air Rule and is implementing the policy today.

The American Carbon Registry is an organization that oversees a tracking system for verification of greenhouse gas reductions for carbon markets in the United States. They are familiar with policies throughout the nation, and when Washington adopted the Clean Air Rule, they took note.

Gov. Inslee was recognized for directing a cap on carbon emissions and Ecology for developing the Clean Air Rule to support carbon reductions. The Clean Air Rule is the first state policy in the nation to require greenhouse gas reductions under the state’s Clean Air Act.

“While creating one of the nation’s most vital economies, Washington state has always remained true to its reputation as an innovator and a leader in clean energy,” noted Gov. Inslee. “We’re proud to demonstrate that a powerful economy and a commitment to a low carbon, clean energy system go hand in hand, and we thank the American Carbon Registry for recognizing our latest efforts.”

Partnership to develop the rule

The rule works with businesses to cap and reduce their greenhouse gas emissions over time and targets two-thirds of Washington’s carbon pollution.

The journey to this landmark rule was not traveled alone. Many staff from Ecology’s Air Quality Program and beyond worked together to launch the rule. Throughout the rule writing process, Ecology worked extensively with members of the public, environmental groups, and industry stakeholders. The Clean Air Rule reflects many of their recommendations.

Washington is doing its part

The Climate Excellence award reflects Washington’s commitment to fighting climate change.

According to Ecology’s Director, Maia Bellon, adopting the rule was a watershed moment in the country’s history. She said that the Clean Air Rule is a strong and practical plan to reduce greenhouse gases, and the state is doing its share to tackle climate change.

By Kerri Wilson, Community Outreach & Environmental Education Specialist