Maryland’s Climate Change Commission, established under the Greenhouse Gas Reduction Act (GGRA) of 2009, is tasked with developing strategies to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. The Act mandates specific reduction targets, aiming for a 40% reduction from 2006 levels by 2030. The Commission’s role involves assessing the impacts of climate change on the state, identifying sectors contributing to emissions, and recommending policies and programs to achieve these reductions. This includes evaluating renewable energy deployment, energy efficiency measures, transportation sector emissions, and industrial processes. The Commission’s recommendations are advisory, but they inform legislative and executive actions. The concept of “just transition” is also relevant, ensuring that policies do not disproportionately burden vulnerable communities or workers in fossil fuel industries. The Maryland Department of the Environment plays a key role in implementing many of these strategies, including the regulation of emissions and the development of climate action plans. The state’s approach often involves a combination of regulatory mandates, market-based mechanisms, and incentive programs. The Commission’s work is iterative, with regular reviews and updates to its strategies to reflect evolving scientific understanding and technological advancements. The ultimate goal is to build resilience and mitigate the adverse effects of climate change within Maryland.

The Maryland Greenhouse Gas Reduction Act of 2009, as amended, establishes a framework for reducing greenhouse gas emissions in the state. A key component of this act is the setting of specific reduction targets. The original act mandated a 25% reduction from 2006 levels by 2020. Subsequent amendments, particularly the Climate Change Commission Act of 2016 and the Greenhouse Gas Reduction Act of 2016, have updated these targets. The 2016 amendments established a new goal of reducing greenhouse gas emissions by 40% from 2006 levels by 2030. This target is achieved through a combination of strategies, including the development of a Renewable Energy Portfolio Standard, energy efficiency programs, and investments in clean transportation. The Act also mandates regular progress reports and the development of strategies to meet these goals. The question asks about the statutory emissions reduction target for Maryland by 2030, relative to 2006 levels, as established by the state’s legislative framework. Based on the amendments to the Greenhouse Gas Reduction Act, the legally binding target for 2030 is a 40% reduction.

Maryland’s Greenhouse Gas Reduction Act (GHGRA) mandates specific emission reduction targets. The state’s Climate Action Plan outlines strategies to achieve these goals, often involving regulatory mechanisms and market-based approaches. The primary legislative framework for these reductions is found in the Environment Article of the Maryland Code. Specifically, the Act requires a 40% reduction in greenhouse gas emissions from 2006 levels by 2030. This target is a critical benchmark for evaluating the effectiveness of state policies. The implementation of these policies involves various state agencies, including the Department of the Environment and the Public Service Commission, in areas such as renewable energy standards, energy efficiency programs, and transportation sector emissions. The question assesses understanding of the statutory emission reduction target established by the GHGRA for the year 2030, which is a foundational element of Maryland’s climate change mitigation strategy.

The Maryland Greenhouse Gas Reduction Act of 2009, codified in Maryland Code, Environment § 2-1201 et seq., mandates specific reductions in greenhouse gas emissions. The Act establishes a goal of reducing statewide greenhouse gas emissions by 25% from a 2006 baseline by 2020 and by 50% from the 2006 baseline by 2030. The Maryland Department of the Environment (MDE) is responsible for developing and implementing strategies to achieve these reductions. These strategies often involve regulatory actions, such as emissions standards for power plants and vehicles, and incentives for renewable energy and energy efficiency. The Act also requires the MDE to conduct periodic reviews and updates to the state’s climate action plan. The concept of “sector-specific accountability” is crucial here, meaning that the state identifies key emitting sectors and tailors policies to address their unique emission profiles. For instance, the transportation sector might see policies focused on fuel efficiency standards and public transit investment, while the energy sector might focus on renewable portfolio standards and phase-outs of certain fossil fuels. The 2016 Maryland Climate Change Commission report highlighted the progress made and identified areas needing further attention to meet the ambitious 2030 targets. The question probes the understanding of the foundational legislative framework and the state’s commitment to emissions reduction targets as established by this key legislation.

The Maryland Greenhouse Gas Reduction Act (GHGRA) of 2009, as amended, mandates specific reductions in greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions. The Act sets a target of reducing emissions by 25% below 2006 levels by 2020 and a further goal of 40% below 2006 levels by 2030. The Maryland Department of the Environment (MDE) is responsible for developing and implementing strategies to achieve these reductions. These strategies often involve a combination of regulatory measures, market-based mechanisms, and voluntary programs. For instance, the state participates in the Regional Greenhouse Gas Initiative (RGGI), a cap-and-invest program among northeastern and mid-Atlantic states that aims to reduce power sector emissions. Additionally, Maryland has implemented regulations for vehicle emissions standards, energy efficiency programs for buildings, and renewable energy portfolio standards. The question focuses on the specific statutory mandate for emission reductions in Maryland. The 2009 Act, and subsequent amendments, established a clear trajectory for these reductions, with a significant milestone set for the year 2030. The GHGRA, codified in Maryland Environment Code, Title 2, Subtitle 10, outlines these targets. The 2030 target is a 40% reduction from the 2006 baseline. This is a core component of Maryland’s climate change mitigation policy.

Maryland’s Greenhouse Gas Reduction Act (GGRA) establishes ambitious targets for reducing statewide greenhouse gas emissions. The Act mandates a 40% reduction from 2006 levels by 2030. The Maryland Department of the Environment (MDE) is responsible for developing and implementing strategies to achieve these reductions. These strategies often involve a multi-faceted approach, including investments in renewable energy, energy efficiency programs, transportation sector improvements, and the development of climate resilience plans. The concept of “sector-specific emissions budgets” is a crucial mechanism employed to track and manage progress across different economic activities within the state. These budgets are not static; they are subject to review and adjustment based on technological advancements, economic conditions, and the evolving understanding of climate science. The GGRA’s framework emphasizes a “cap-and-invest” or similar market-based mechanisms as potential tools, alongside direct regulatory measures, to incentivize emissions reductions efficiently. Furthermore, the Act requires periodic progress reports and updates to the climate action plan, ensuring accountability and adaptability. The specific emissions reduction targets and the mechanisms for achieving them are detailed within the MDE’s official climate action plans and associated regulations, which are periodically updated.

The Maryland Greenhouse Gas Reduction Act (GHGA) of 2009, codified in Environment Article §2-1001 et seq. of the Maryland Code, mandates significant reductions in greenhouse gas emissions. Specifically, it requires a reduction of 25% below 2006 levels by 2020 and 40% below 2006 levels by 2030. The Maryland Department of the Environment (MDE) is responsible for developing and implementing strategies to achieve these targets. These strategies are often outlined in the Maryland Climate Action Plan, which is periodically updated. The Act also establishes a Climate Change Commission to advise the Governor and the General Assembly on climate change issues. Key sectors targeted for emissions reductions include electricity generation, transportation, and buildings. The Act’s framework is designed to be adaptive, allowing for adjustments based on scientific advancements and economic considerations. The state’s approach often involves a combination of regulatory measures, market-based mechanisms, and incentives for clean technologies. The focus is on achieving absolute emission reductions across the economy, rather than solely on emissions intensity. The GHGA serves as a cornerstone of Maryland’s climate policy, influencing a wide range of environmental and energy regulations within the state.

The Maryland Greenhouse Gas Reduction Act of 2009, as amended, sets forth specific goals for reducing greenhouse gas emissions within the state. The Act mandates a reduction of 25% below 2006 levels by 2020 and 40% below 2006 levels by 2030. These targets are achieved through a combination of regulatory measures, market-based mechanisms, and investments in clean energy and energy efficiency. The Maryland Public Service Commission plays a crucial role in implementing many of these strategies, particularly those related to the electricity sector. For instance, the Renewable Energy Portfolio Standard (RPS), a key component of Maryland’s climate strategy, requires utilities to source a growing percentage of their electricity from renewable sources. The state also focuses on transportation sector emissions through initiatives like the Clean Cars Maryland program and by promoting electric vehicle adoption. Furthermore, the state’s commitment to climate resilience and adaptation is addressed through various planning efforts and strategies aimed at protecting vulnerable communities and infrastructure from the impacts of climate change, such as sea-level rise and increased storm intensity. The state’s approach is dynamic, with ongoing reviews and updates to its climate action plans to ensure progress towards its ambitious emission reduction goals.

The Maryland Greenhouse Gas Reduction Act of 2009 (GHGRA), as amended, mandates significant reductions in greenhouse gas emissions. Specifically, it requires a reduction of 40% below 2006 levels by 2030. The law also establishes a framework for implementing strategies to achieve these reductions, including a focus on renewable energy and energy efficiency. The Maryland Public Service Commission (PSC) plays a crucial role in developing and implementing programs to meet these targets, often through regulations that govern utilities and energy markets. The concept of a “portfolio standard” or “renewable energy standard” is central to these efforts, requiring utilities to source a certain percentage of their electricity from renewable sources. The Maryland Renewable Energy Market Development program, while not directly setting a percentage in the GHGRA itself, works in conjunction with the overarching goals. The state’s climate action plan provides a roadmap for achieving the GHGRA targets, outlining sector-specific strategies. The question probes the student’s understanding of the specific emissions reduction target and the primary legislative mandate for achieving it in Maryland.

The Maryland Climate Change Commission, established under the Greenhouse Gas Reduction Act of 2009 (and subsequent amendments), is tasked with developing and recommending strategies to reduce greenhouse gas emissions in Maryland. The Act mandates specific percentage reductions for greenhouse gas emissions from a 2006 baseline. For 2030, the target is a 40% reduction. The Commission’s work involves evaluating various sectors, including energy, transportation, and agriculture, and proposing policies to achieve these reductions. This includes considering renewable energy standards, energy efficiency programs, and adaptation strategies for climate impacts such as sea-level rise, which is a significant concern for Maryland due to its extensive coastline. The Commission’s recommendations inform legislative and executive actions aimed at mitigating climate change and fostering a sustainable economy within the state. The question probes the understanding of the specific legislative framework and the mandated emission reduction targets set forth by Maryland law for a particular year, requiring knowledge of the Greenhouse Gas Reduction Act and its subsequent updates.

The Maryland Greenhouse Gas Reduction Act of 2009, as amended, sets forth ambitious goals for reducing greenhouse gas emissions within the state. Specifically, the Act mandates a reduction of 40% below 2006 levels by 2030. This target is a critical benchmark for evaluating the state’s progress in climate mitigation. To achieve this, Maryland has implemented a suite of policies, including its participation in the Regional Greenhouse Gas Initiative (RGGI), which caps and reduces carbon dioxide emissions from power plants. Furthermore, the state has promoted renewable energy through Renewable Portfolio Standards (RPS) and has invested in energy efficiency programs. The Act also requires the Maryland Department of the Environment to develop and update a Climate Action Plan, outlining strategies for achieving these emission reduction targets. The question probes the specific quantitative target established by the Act for a key future year, which is a foundational element of Maryland’s climate policy framework. Understanding this specific percentage and baseline year is crucial for assessing the legal and policy landscape of climate action in Maryland. The target of a 40% reduction from 2006 levels by 2030 is a cornerstone of the state’s legal commitment to climate change mitigation.

The Maryland Greenhouse Gas Reduction Act (GHGRA) of 2009, as amended, mandates specific reductions in greenhouse gas emissions. The state’s Climate Action Plan and subsequent legislation, such as the Clean Energy Jobs Act of 2019, further refine these targets and introduce mechanisms for achieving them. Specifically, the GHGRA sets a goal of reducing greenhouse gas emissions by 50% from 2006 levels by 2030. This is a legally binding target. The Clean Energy Jobs Act of 2019, building upon the GHGRA, aimed to increase the Renewable Portfolio Standard (RPS) to 50% by 2030, with specific carve-outs for offshore wind and solar. The question asks about the *primary* legal mechanism established by Maryland law to ensure the state meets its mandated greenhouse gas emission reduction targets. While the RPS, carbon pricing, and energy efficiency programs are all important tools, the GHGRA itself, through its legally binding emission reduction targets and the requirement for the state to develop and implement plans to meet them, serves as the foundational legal framework. The development of a State Implementation Plan (SIP) or similar regulatory framework to achieve these reductions is a direct consequence of the GHGRA’s mandate. Therefore, the legally binding emission reduction targets and the requirement for a state-wide plan to achieve them are the core legal mechanisms.

The Maryland Greenhouse Gas Reduction Act (GHGA) of 2009, codified in Maryland Code, Environment § 2-1201 et seq., established a legally binding target for reducing greenhouse gas emissions. The Act mandates a 25% reduction from 2006 levels by 2020. While the GHGA sets the overarching goal, the implementation and specific strategies are often detailed in subsequent plans and regulations. The Maryland Department of the Environment (MDE) is tasked with developing and implementing these strategies. The state’s Climate Action Plan, updated periodically, outlines sector-specific measures to achieve these reductions. For instance, renewable energy portfolio standards, energy efficiency programs, and transportation initiatives are key components. The question probes the understanding of the *legal mandate* and its *primary achievement timeline* as established by the foundational GHGA, distinguishing it from ongoing implementation efforts or future targets. The 25% reduction by 2020 is the core statutory requirement of the original GHGA. Other options represent either earlier, less ambitious targets, or later, more ambitious, and evolving goals that may have been introduced in subsequent legislation or plans, but they do not represent the foundational mandate of the 2009 Act.

The Maryland Greenhouse Gas Reduction Act of 2009, as amended, sets forth ambitious targets for reducing statewide greenhouse gas emissions. Specifically, the Act mandates a reduction of 40% below the 2006 baseline by the year 2030. This goal is achieved through a multi-faceted approach involving various sectors, including energy, transportation, and industry. The Maryland Department of the Environment is tasked with developing and implementing strategies to meet these targets. These strategies often involve regulatory measures, such as emissions standards for vehicles and power plants, as well as incentive programs to promote renewable energy adoption and energy efficiency. The Act also emphasizes the importance of stakeholder engagement and public input in the development of these climate policies. The 40% reduction target is a key benchmark that guides the state’s climate action planning and regulatory framework, influencing decisions on infrastructure development, economic incentives, and environmental protection. Understanding this specific target is crucial for comprehending the scope and ambition of Maryland’s climate change mitigation efforts.

The Maryland Greenhouse Gas Reduction Act (GHGA) of 2009, as amended, sets ambitious goals for reducing statewide greenhouse gas emissions. Specifically, it mandates a 40% reduction from a 2006 baseline by the year 2030. This is a legally binding target that guides the state’s climate policy development and implementation. The GHGA also establishes a framework for the Maryland Department of the Environment (MDE) to develop and implement strategies to achieve these reductions. These strategies can encompass a wide range of sectors, including energy, transportation, and agriculture. The Act is periodically reviewed and updated to ensure its continued effectiveness and alignment with evolving scientific understanding and national/international climate commitments. The foundational legislation establishes a clear, measurable objective that shapes regulatory actions and program development within Maryland.

The Maryland Greenhouse Gas Reduction Act of 2009 (GHGRA) established a framework for reducing greenhouse gas emissions in the state. The Act mandates specific reduction targets, aiming for a 25% reduction from a 2006 baseline by 2020 and a 40% reduction from the 2006 baseline by 2030. The Maryland Department of the Environment (MDE) is responsible for developing and implementing plans to achieve these goals. The Act also established the Maryland Climate Change Commission to advise the Governor and General Assembly on climate change policy. Key strategies for achieving these reductions include promoting renewable energy, improving energy efficiency, and implementing transportation sector reforms. The concept of a “cap-and-invest” program, while not explicitly mandated by the original GHGRA, is a policy mechanism that could be employed to achieve such reductions by setting a limit on emissions and allowing entities to trade allowances, thereby incentivizing cost-effective emission reductions. The question probes the understanding of the foundational legislative act that sets Maryland’s emission reduction trajectory and the responsible agency for its implementation, as well as the primary mechanism through which such reductions are typically achieved in a regulatory context.

The Maryland Greenhouse Gas Reduction Act (GHGA) of 2009, as amended, mandates specific reductions in greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions. The state has set a target of reducing emissions by 40% below 2006 levels by 2030. The Maryland Department of the Environment (MDE) is responsible for developing and implementing strategies to achieve these goals. This includes the development of a Climate Action Plan, which outlines specific policies and programs. One key aspect of the GHGA is its focus on sectors like electricity generation, transportation, and buildings. The law also emphasizes the importance of stakeholder engagement and public participation in the development and implementation of climate policies. The GHGA serves as a foundational piece of legislation for Maryland’s climate change mitigation efforts, establishing legally binding targets and a framework for action. It requires regular progress reports and updates to the Climate Action Plan, ensuring a dynamic and adaptive approach to emissions reduction. The law’s provisions are designed to foster innovation in clean energy technologies and promote sustainable practices across various sectors of the state’s economy.

Maryland’s Greenhouse Gas Reduction Act (GGRA) of 2009, as amended, mandates significant reductions in greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions. The law established a 2006 baseline and set a goal of reducing emissions by 40% from that baseline by 2030. The Maryland Department of the Environment (MDE) is responsible for developing and implementing strategies to achieve these reductions. The Act specifically outlines requirements for emissions inventories, modeling, and the development of a Climate Action Plan. It also encourages the use of renewable energy, energy efficiency, and other mitigation measures. Furthermore, the GGRA has been updated to include provisions for climate adaptation and resilience. The 2016 amendments, for instance, strengthened the emission reduction targets and incorporated a focus on equity in climate action. The law’s framework involves a multi-sectoral approach, addressing emissions from electricity generation, transportation, industry, and buildings. The concept of “emissions intensity” is also relevant, as the state aims to decouple economic growth from GHG emissions. The MDE’s role includes setting sector-specific goals and tracking progress towards the overall statewide targets. The law’s implementation relies on a combination of regulatory measures, market-based mechanisms, and voluntary programs.

The Maryland Greenhouse Gas Reduction Act (GHGRA) of 2009, as amended, establishes a framework for reducing greenhouse gas emissions in the state. Specifically, it mandates a 25% reduction in greenhouse gas emissions from 2006 levels by the year 2020 and an 80% reduction from 2006 levels by the year 2050. The Maryland Department of the Environment (MDE) is responsible for developing and implementing strategies to achieve these targets. These strategies often involve a combination of regulatory measures, market-based mechanisms, and voluntary programs. For instance, the state has implemented regulations concerning vehicle emissions standards and energy efficiency requirements for buildings. The law also mandates the development of a Climate Action Plan, which is updated periodically to reflect progress and evolving scientific understanding. The GHGRA is a cornerstone of Maryland’s climate policy, demonstrating a commitment to addressing climate change through legislative action and state-level implementation. The core of the law is the quantifiable emission reduction targets and the directive for the MDE to create plans to meet them, which involves a broad range of policy tools.

The Maryland Greenhouse Gas Reduction Act of 2009 (GHGRA) established a mandatory statewide greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions reduction mandate. The act initially set a goal of reducing emissions by 25% below 2006 levels by 2020. Subsequent legislation, notably the Climate Change Commission’s 2016 report and the Greenhouse Gas Reduction Act of 2016, revised these targets. The 2016 amendments, specifically, mandated a 40% reduction below 2006 levels by 2030. This target is a cornerstone of Maryland’s climate policy and guides the development of various programs and regulations aimed at achieving these reductions. The focus is on a comprehensive approach that includes energy efficiency, renewable energy deployment, transportation sector improvements, and industrial process enhancements. The state’s commitment to these reductions is a key indicator of its proactive stance on climate change mitigation. The question tests the understanding of the specific, legislatively mandated emission reduction targets for a key year within Maryland’s climate law framework.

The Maryland Greenhouse Gas Reduction Act of 2009 (GHGRA), codified in Maryland Code, Environment §2-1001 et seq., establishes a framework for reducing greenhouse gas emissions. A key component of this act is the requirement for the state to achieve specific emission reduction targets. The initial target, set for 2020, was a 25% reduction from the 2006 baseline. Subsequent amendments and the Climate Change Commission’s work have updated these goals. The 2016 update to the GHGRA, for instance, established a goal of 40% reduction from the 2006 baseline by 2030. The Act mandates the development of a Climate Action Plan to outline strategies for achieving these reductions. This plan involves various sectors, including energy, transportation, and industry, and often incorporates market-based mechanisms, regulatory standards, and incentive programs. The effectiveness of these strategies is subject to ongoing review and adaptation by the Maryland Department of the Environment and the Climate Change Commission. The question probes the understanding of the statutory basis and the evolution of Maryland’s emission reduction targets, specifically focusing on the legal mandate and the initial statutory goal for a specific year. The core of the law is the reduction of greenhouse gas emissions to meet scientifically informed targets.

The Maryland Greenhouse Gas Reduction Act (GHGA) of 2009, codified in Environment Article §2-1001 et seq. of the Maryland Code, mandates specific reductions in greenhouse gas emissions. The Act sets a target of reducing greenhouse gas emissions by 25% below 2006 levels by 2020 and by 40% below 2006 levels by 2030. The Maryland Department of the Environment (MDE) is responsible for developing and implementing strategies to achieve these reductions. These strategies often involve a combination of regulatory measures, market-based mechanisms, and voluntary programs. The core of the GHGA’s approach is to establish a framework for emissions reduction that is adaptive and incorporates scientific advancements. The Act also emphasizes the importance of stakeholder engagement and the development of a greenhouse gas emissions inventory. The specific mechanisms for achieving these reductions are detailed in various MDE regulations and plans, such as the Maryland Climate Action Plan. The question tests the understanding of the quantitative targets set by the GHGA for a specific future year, requiring knowledge of the established legislative goals.

The Maryland Greenhouse Gas Reduction Act (GGRA) of 2009, as amended, establishes a comprehensive framework for reducing greenhouse gas emissions in the state. A key component of this act is the requirement for the state to achieve specific percentage reductions from a baseline year. The initial goal was a 25% reduction from 2006 levels by 2020. Subsequent amendments have set more ambitious targets, including a 40% reduction from 2006 levels by 2030. The Maryland Department of the Environment (MDE) is tasked with developing and implementing strategies to meet these targets. These strategies often involve a combination of regulatory measures, such as emissions standards for various sectors, and market-based mechanisms, like participation in regional cap-and-trade programs. The focus on a specific baseline year and percentage reduction is a common legislative approach to setting clear, measurable climate goals. Understanding these foundational targets and the responsible agency is crucial for grasping the state’s commitment to climate mitigation. The question tests the knowledge of the legally mandated emission reduction target for a specific future year as established by Maryland law. The 2030 target is a significant milestone within the state’s climate policy.

The Maryland Greenhouse Gas Reduction Act of 2009, as amended, mandates specific reductions in greenhouse gas emissions. The state’s Climate Action Plan, updated periodically, outlines strategies to achieve these targets. A key component of Maryland’s strategy involves the regulation of emissions from the power sector. The Maryland Public Service Commission (PSC) plays a crucial role in overseeing the state’s energy policies and implementing climate-related regulations. Specifically, the PSC is responsible for approving resource procurement plans and ensuring that utilities comply with state mandates, including those related to renewable energy and emissions reductions. The Maryland Clean Energy Jobs Act of 2019 further strengthened the state’s renewable energy portfolio standard (RPS), increasing the target for renewable electricity generation. The state’s approach integrates market-based mechanisms and direct regulatory standards to achieve its climate goals. The specific percentage of emissions reductions required by the 2009 Act, as amended, is a foundational element of Maryland’s climate policy. The most recent amendments have set ambitious targets for 2030 and beyond. The question asks about the specific percentage of greenhouse gas emissions that Maryland is mandated to reduce from its 2006 levels by the year 2030, as established by the Greenhouse Gas Reduction Act of 2009, as amended. The current statutory target for 2030 is a 50% reduction.

The Maryland Greenhouse Gas Reduction Act (GHGA) of 2009, codified in Maryland Code, Environment § 2-1201 et seq., mandates specific reductions in greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions. The Act established a goal of reducing GHG emissions by 25% below 2006 levels by 2020. Subsequent amendments and related legislation have further refined these targets and introduced mechanisms for their achievement. The Maryland Commission on Climate Change, established under the GHGA, plays a crucial role in advising the Governor and General Assembly on climate change mitigation and adaptation strategies. The state’s Climate Action Plan outlines specific policies and programs to meet these reduction goals, often involving sector-specific strategies such as renewable energy mandates, energy efficiency programs, and transportation initiatives. Understanding the statutory framework, including the initial reduction targets, the role of advisory bodies, and the types of policies enacted to achieve these reductions, is fundamental to comprehending Maryland’s approach to climate change law. The GHGA serves as a cornerstone, and its implementation involves a complex interplay of legislative mandates, administrative actions, and stakeholder engagement.

Maryland’s Greenhouse Gas Reduction Act of 2009 (GHGRA), codified in Environment Article §2-1001 et seq. of the Maryland Code, mandates significant reductions in greenhouse gas emissions. The Act established a target of reducing emissions by 25% below 2006 levels by 2020, and further set a goal of 40% below 2006 levels by 2030. The Maryland Department of the Environment (MDE) is responsible for developing and implementing strategies to achieve these reductions. These strategies often involve a multi-pronged approach, including regulatory measures, market-based mechanisms, and voluntary programs. Specifically, the GHGRA requires the MDE to develop and implement a plan to achieve the specified emission reductions, which has historically included initiatives related to the transportation sector, energy efficiency, and renewable energy deployment. The Act also mandates regular reporting on progress and the development of updated plans as needed. The focus is on a comprehensive, statewide strategy to mitigate climate change impacts through emission control and adaptation planning. The legal framework emphasizes the state’s authority to regulate emissions within its borders, aligning with federal environmental law principles while also establishing state-specific ambitious targets.

The Maryland Greenhouse Gas Reduction Act (GHGRA) of 2009, codified in Environment Article §2-1001 et seq. of the Maryland Code, establishes ambitious statewide goals for reducing greenhouse gas emissions. Specifically, it mandates a reduction of 25% below 2006 levels by 2020 and 40% below 2006 levels by 2030. The Act also requires the Maryland Department of the Environment (MDE) to develop and implement strategies to achieve these reductions. These strategies often involve a combination of regulatory measures, market-based mechanisms, and voluntary programs. The question focuses on the interplay between state-level mandates and federal initiatives, particularly concerning the Clean Power Plan (CPP) and its successor, the Affordable Clean Energy (ACE) rule, which was later vacated. While the GHGRA sets Maryland’s specific targets, the state’s approach to achieving them is influenced by the broader federal regulatory landscape and judicial interpretations of federal authority. Maryland’s Climate Action Plan, updated periodically, details sector-specific strategies, including those for electricity generation, transportation, and buildings, to meet the GHGRA targets. The question probes the understanding of how state climate policy operates within the context of evolving federal environmental regulations and legal challenges, emphasizing the independent authority and action Maryland can take even when federal policy shifts. The correct answer reflects Maryland’s ability to pursue its own emission reduction goals irrespective of specific federal regulatory frameworks like the CPP or ACE, as long as its actions are consistent with federal law.

The Maryland Greenhouse Gas Reduction Act (GHGRA) of 2009, codified in Environment Article, Title 2, Subtitle 10 of the Maryland Code, mandates specific reductions in greenhouse gas emissions. The Act sets a target of reducing emissions by 25% below 2006 levels by 2020 and 40% below 2006 levels by 2030. The Maryland Department of the Environment (MDE) is responsible for developing and implementing strategies to achieve these goals. These strategies often involve a combination of regulatory measures, market-based mechanisms, and voluntary programs. The Act also requires periodic reviews and updates to the state’s climate action plan to ensure progress toward the established targets. The concept of “emissions intensity” is a common metric used in climate policy, referring to the amount of greenhouse gas emitted per unit of economic output, such as per dollar of Gross State Product (GSP). While the GHGRA sets absolute emission reduction targets, understanding emissions intensity can provide insights into the decoupling of economic growth from emissions. For instance, if Maryland’s GSP grows by 2% and its emissions decrease by 1%, the emissions intensity would decrease. The Act’s effectiveness is evaluated not just by absolute reductions but also by the progress in reducing the carbon footprint relative to economic activity. The 2030 target represents a significant escalation from the 2020 target, requiring more aggressive and potentially innovative policy interventions. The legal framework for achieving these reductions is complex, involving various stakeholders and sectors, including energy, transportation, and industry.

The Maryland Greenhouse Gas Reduction Act of 2009 (GHGRA) mandates a reduction of greenhouse gas emissions in Maryland. The Act sets specific percentage reduction targets from a baseline year. The initial target, established by the Act, was a 25% reduction from 2006 levels by 2020. Subsequent amendments and executive orders have adjusted these targets. The Maryland Climate Action Plan, updated in 2023, outlines strategies to achieve further reductions. Specifically, the state has committed to reducing greenhouse gas emissions by 50% below 2006 levels by 2030. This ambitious goal requires a multi-faceted approach, including investments in renewable energy, energy efficiency improvements, electrification of transportation, and reductions in industrial emissions. The state’s commitment to these targets is legally binding and subject to ongoing monitoring and reporting by the Maryland Department of the Environment. The framework of the GHGRA and its subsequent updates are central to understanding Maryland’s climate policy landscape.

The Maryland Greenhouse Gas Reduction Act of 2009 (GHGRA), codified in Environment Code § 2-1001 et seq., mandates specific reductions in greenhouse gas emissions. The Act initially set a goal of reducing emissions by 25% below 2006 levels by 2020. Subsequent amendments, particularly the Climate Change Commission Act of 2019, updated these targets. The 2019 legislation established a new goal of reducing greenhouse gas emissions by 50% below 2006 levels by 2030. This legislative action is a key component of Maryland’s climate change mitigation strategy, focusing on a sector-wide approach to emissions reduction, including power generation, transportation, and buildings. The law also established a Climate Change Commission to advise the Governor and General Assembly on climate policy and to oversee the implementation of the state’s climate goals. The focus is on achieving these reductions through a variety of strategies, including renewable energy deployment, energy efficiency improvements, and the development of clean transportation infrastructure. Understanding the specific percentage reduction targets and the legislative framework that establishes them is crucial for comprehending Maryland’s commitment to climate action. The 2019 update significantly increased the ambition of the state’s climate goals, reflecting a growing recognition of the urgency of climate change.