EDF, Eco-Cycle Urge Robust Colorado Landfill Methane Rulemaking for Climate, Public Health

(Denver, CO – July 14, 2025) – Environmental Defense Fund (EDF) and Eco-Cycle submitted a prehearing statement underscoring the critical importance of the Colorado Air Quality Control Commission's ongoing rulemaking process to establish stronger methane and air pollution controls on landfills. This rulemaking presents a vital opportunity to address a major source of climate pollution using commonsense measures that protect communities across Colorado.

Colorado has some of the largest landfills in the country, with many located near major population centers and disproportionately impacted communities. Landfills are Colorado’s third largest source of methane — a potent climate pollutant with over 80 times the near-term warming power of carbon dioxide — and are likewise a source of other harmful air pollutants.

"Colorado has an important opportunity to set leading standards for landfill methane. Landfill pollution requires immediate action, and we urge the adoption of the most protective and effective rules, integrating commonsense solutions like advanced monitoring technologies to secure a healthier future for our climate and communities," said Edwin LaMair, Senior Attorney at Environmental Defense Fund.

The proposed methane regulations aim to require operators to capture pollution using gas collection systems, more robustly monitor for emissions and leaks, and adopt other commonsense measures already required by other states. Once finalized, these standards will reduce pollution that destabilizes the climate and contributes to smog and other health-harming air pollution. 

“Stronger methane regulations are vital to minimizing the environmental impact of landfills,” said Suzanne Jones, Executive Director of Eco-Cycle. “These new rules would prioritize public health and climate protection, providing a critical complement to sustainable waste management practices that reduce the amount of organic material going to landfills in the first place."

Landfill methane emissions have often been underestimated, with many landfills exhibiting large, persistent leaks. In addition to contributing significantly to global warming, landfill methane is co-emitted with hazardous air pollutants like benzene, toluene, and vinyl chloride that can harm human health and air quality. 

Learn more at Landfill Methane Map.