The letter, dated 29 September, accuses the Trump administration of leveraging its energy dominance to force the European Union into lowering environmental protections. Signatories, including Greenpeace US and For a Better Bayou, claim that US export terminals currently supplying Europe frequently violate air pollution limits. They contend that the EU’s pending methane rules represent the final opportunity to mandate accountability for gas imports crossing the Atlantic.
US NGOs urge EU to reject pressure on methane import standards
Nearly 100 American civil society organizations have petitioned EU energy ministers to resist lobbying efforts from the White House and global gas exporters. The groups argue that delaying proposed methane regulations would surrender European climate standards to international pressure, leaving US export terminals to continue operating without strict environmental oversight.
Despite support from lawmakers like Democratic congressman Sean Casten, the political tide has shifted within the bloc. Over the summer, Germany and a majority of member states expressed concerns that stringent regulations might prompt suppliers from the US, Qatar, Nigeria, and Algeria to divert fuel to less demanding markets. Responding to these fears, EU energy commissioner Dan Jørgensen announced on Tuesday that he intends to propose a one-year delay for regulation components linked to imports. While Jørgensen maintains that the Union remains committed to its climate objectives, the move marks a significant concession to nations warning of potential supply disruptions.
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