Transportation is the largest source of greenhouse gas emissions in Washington, accounting for about 39% of total emissions. To meet Washington’s requirement to reduce total greenhouse gas emissions 95% by 2050, steps must be taken to reduce emissions from this sector now. That’s why the Legislature passed the Clean Fuel Standard, to add incentives to the transition to low-carbon and zero-emission fuels, along with companion policies, such as the zero-emission vehicles standard.
The Climate Commitment Act, which covers a wider range of emissions sources, will act as a backstop — helping to cut overall emissions to meet limits set in state law, while also driving down the demand and cost of petroleum.
Because fuel suppliers will be reducing the carbon intensity of their products under the Clean Fuel Standard, they will need fewer emissions allowances under the Climate Commitment Act. The two policies work together, pushing to reduce priority transportation emissions at a low cost.