Gases that trap heat in the atmosphere are called greenhouse gases (GHGs). These include carbon dioxide, methane, nitrous oxide and fluorinated gases. Solar radiation in the lower atmosphere acts like a “greenhouse” – thus the name – preventing heat from escaping. Emissions of greenhouse gases into the atmosphere is the main cause of climate change.

Virginia is committed to addressing the pollutants that contribute to climate change. The Virginia Clean Economy Act establishes renewable portfolio and energy efficiency standards, and advances offshore wind and solar generation, and the Clean Energy and Community Flood Preparedness Act requires Virginia to join the Regional Greenhouse Gas Initiative (RGGI).

Additionally, DEQ implements several programs to reduce methane DEQ also coordinates Virginia's participation in RGGI and the Transportation Climate Initiative (TCI).

GHG Inventories

DEQ has conducted economy-wide GHG inventories for 2005, 2010 and 2018. The following reports and accompanying Excel files provide more information on these inventories.

Baseline Inventory Report - 2005 and 2010

Baseline Inventory Tables and Figures Data

2018 Inventory Report

2018 Inventory Tables and Figures Data