The Revitalist

Governor Patrick and the Executive Office of Environmental Affairs have announced that effective immediately all large development projects that require MEPA review will also have to account for their greenhouse gas emissions and take reduction/offsetting measures. MEPA review (which requires public disclosure, comment and a mitigation plan of environmental impacts of the project) is required for large-scale projects undertaken by state agencies or private projects that involve state approvals or money, among other criteria.  The process for assessment is being drawn up now and should be formalized by July. Apparently, the developers will have a certain amount of latitude when it comes to selecting their method for offsetting the impact, e.g. energy efficient systems, alternative fuels, transportation systems, etc. I didn't see a statement about the program on the EOEA website, but I'm sure that there will be a lot more discussion and details in the coming weeks.