Despite its ambitious climate goals, California lacks a concrete plan to phase out oil refineries, the state's largest source of industrial fossil fuel pollution.
Experts say California can't meet its climate targets without addressing oil refinery emissions.
Refineries are major sources of pollutants like sulfur dioxides and benzene, impacting nearby communities.
Advocates call for a gradual reduction plan for refineries over the next two decades, starting with gasoline and diesel.
Key quote:
“There are significant acute and chronic public health and climate impacts from refiners.”
— Woody Hastings, The Climate Center
Why this matters:
Refineries significantly contribute to greenhouse gas emissions and toxic pollution, disproportionately affecting vulnerable communities. Phasing them out is crucial for California to meet its climate goals and protect public health.
Activists and conservation groups are underwhelmed by the web site, saying they will put their trust in a state-mandated measurement law still to come.
