EPA Maps Largest Sources Of Carbon Emissions

WASHINGTON -- A new carbon emissions database launched by the Environmental Protection Agency maps out the biggest stationary sources of carbon pollution nationwide. Users can zoom out to see what regions of the country are hardest-hit, or zoom in to identify the worst pollution offenders in their area.

The data, which is organized into categories including power plants, refineries, chemicals, landfills, metals and minerals, reveal power plants to be the largest stationary sources of pollution, emitting 2,324 million metric tons of carbon dioxide equivalent, followed by petroleum at 183 mmtCO2e.

Collected from 6,700 facilities and suppliers during calendar year 2010, the map represents an estimated 80 percent of all U.S. greenhouse gas emissions. Breakdowns are available by industry and state, but cannot be filtered by corporation.

"The GHG Reporting Program data provides a critical tool for businesses and other innovators to find cost- and fuel-saving efficiencies that reduce greenhouse gas emissions, and foster technologies to protect public health and the environment," said Gina McCarthy, assistant administrator for EPA’s Office of Air and Radiation.

The data is currently being updated and an additional 12 source categories will be available for 2011 figures. View the EPA's new interactive map here.