Carbon emissions continue decline

SEATTLE – Greenhouse gas emissions in Washington state dropped by about 4.6 percent from 2010 to 2011, led by reductions in emissions from the electricity sector, according to the latest figures released by the state.

The latest data show about 91.7 million metric tons of carbon dioxide or its equivalent was released in 2011, compared to about 96.1 million metric tons the year before.

Emissions are on a downward trend but still about 4 percent higher than in 1990.

The report comes as Gov. Jay Inslee is proposing sweeping policies to combat climate change, including a cap-and-trade program that would charge large industrial polluters for each metric ton of emissions they release.

Republican lawmakers say the cap-and-trade program would raise gas prices and hurt businesses and consumers. They say the state is already a low-carbon producing state because of its extensive hydropower, and there are cheaper ways to reduce carbon pollution.

The state’s emissions have fluctuated each year but overall have decreased since 2007, according to the figures the Department of Ecology posted on its website last week. The agency is required to complete the report every two years.

The state currently is finalizing 2012 emissions estimates. Data from 2011 are the latest it has because of the lengthy time it takes to collect and verify data, a department spokeswoman said.

A state law requires Washington to reduce overall emissions to 1990 levels by 2020, make a 25 percent cut in 1990 levels by 2035, and greater reductions by 2050.