Proposed changes to Washington’s existing greenhouse gas reporting rule will update existing processes that save businesses who report greenhouse gases time and money.

The Department of Ecology hosted a half-day stakeholder meeting to gather input and feedback on the proposed changes from businesses currently reporting greenhouse gas emissions. The updates ensure reporting requirements remain efficient and consistent with the Environmental Protection Agency’s rule.

Ecology is now accepting public comments on the proposed rule changes through Dec. 10, 2014.

The rule is available for review on Ecology’s website or in person at Ecology Headquarters, 300 Desmond Drive, Lacey, WA. Citizens also can request a mailed copy of the plan by calling 360-407-7528.

Comments are being accepted by email to AQComments@ecy.wa.gov, or mail to Stacey Callaway, Washington Department of Ecology, P.O. Box 47600, Olympia, WA 98504-7600.

Oral comments also are being accepted at a public hearing hosted by Ecology at 10 a.m. Dec. 3 at 300 Desmond Dr., Lacey, WA

For more information on the hearing, contact Stacey Callaway, 360-407-7528, stacey.callaway@ecy.wa.gov

The greenhouse gas reporting rule went into effect Jan. 1, 2011. The Washington Legislature directed Ecology to periodically update the rule to maintain consistency with EPA’s rule.