Greenhouse Gas Emissions

Politics

Classic cars will still need a smog test in California after lawmakers reject Jay Leno bill

California’s Assembly Appropriations Committee killed “Leno’s Law” that aimed to give classic car owners like him a pass from smog requirements.

By Ryan Sabalow • August 29, 2025

Commentary

California air board member: Why I can’t back the proposed fuel standard changes

Proposed amendments to the Low Carbon Fuel Standard program fall short of the goals of transparency, equity and responsible policymaking, says a member of the California Air Resources Board.

By Dean Florez • November 7, 2024

Environment

In nationwide first, California plans to rev up sales of electric motorcycles

Bikers — many of whom love their noisy combustion engines — say zero-emission motorcycles aren’t ready for long-distance rides. Motorcycles emit an “outsized portion” of smog-causing pollutants.

By Alejandra Reyes-Velarde • October 28, 2024

Commentary

How California’s prized solution for methane gas is backfiring on farmers

The farm subsidies for a California program aiming to reduce methane gas emissions have skewed the market, making pollution as valuable as dairy in some cases, and eroded the ability for family farms to compete.

By Darvin Bentlage • March 18, 2024

Climate Change

California isn’t on track to meet its climate change mandates — and a new analysis says it’s not even close

A new analysis concludes that unless California almost triples its rate of cutting greenhouse gases, the state won't meet its 2030 climate change target. Some emissions were rising.

By Alejandro Lazo • March 14, 2024

Environment

California weighs ending climate credits for cow poop

California grants climate credits for fuel made from cow manure, but there’s a paradox: The state's program encourages collection of methane yet promotes natural gas.

By Alejandro Lazo • October 19, 2023

Environment

Newsom signs climate bills that force large companies to reveal role and risks in climate change

Newsom signed two bills requiring large companies to report their financial risks posed by climate change as well as their annual greenhouse gases. But he will work with the Legislature to relax the 2026 deadlines.

By Alejandro Lazo • September 12, 2023

WhatMatters

Will California’s push on electric vehicles reduce inequality — or deepen it?

How can California make sure the electric vehicle revolution isn’t just for the wealthy few? That was the big question in a CalMatters panel discussion Tuesday. While bringing down the cost of EVs is crucial, so is the availability of chargers. And that is something of a chicken-and-egg proposition. Some on the panel — moderated […]

By Lynn La • August 16, 2023

Environment

California and manufacturers strike deal over zero-emission trucks

Truck manufacturers won’t file legal challenges over California's controversial mandate, and in return, the state air board will relax some smog-fighting requirements.

By Rachel Becker • July 6, 2023

Climate Change

Corporations and climate change: California may force large businesses to disclose climate impacts

Corporate reports would reveal top polluters and climate-related financial risks. But companies warn about faulty data and a “gold-plated exercise” if the two bills become law.

By Alejandro Lazo • June 27, 2023