Governing Law and Regulations
Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment (CDPHE) Office of Environment Air Pollution Control Division
See ADDRESSES & CONTACTS for addresses and telephone numbers.
See national section for basic information and federal regulations.
Comparison: State vs. Federal
• Rules. Before 2009, little action was taken at the federal level, beyond voluntary initiatives, to implement greenhouse gas (GHG) management strategies ensuring that GHG emissions are accounted for and controlled. However, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency has changed its stance and is initiating actions to monitor and control GHG emissions.
Colorado, through Executive Orders, statutes, and regulations, is developing and implementing programs to address GHG emissions, including the first-of-its-kind regulations to limit methane emissions from the oil and gas industry. In addition, the state is working with other states to implement regional programs to monitor and control GHG emissions.
• Administration and enforcement. The Air Pollution Control Division of CDPHE's Office of Environment will administer the state's programs to address GHG emissions and will coordinate with other states to assist in the implementation of regional climate change initiatives.