New Federal Rules on Greenhouse Gas Emissions Reporting: What Businesses Need to Know

Greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions are a primary driver of climate change, making transparency in corporate emissions reporting a critical step toward global sustainability. Governments worldwide have been tightening regulations to ensure businesses accurately disclose their environmental impact. In the United States, new federal rules now require companies to report their GHG emissions more transparently, marking a significant shift in climate accountability.

These regulations aim to provide investors, regulators, and the public with clearer insights into corporate carbon footprints. By standardizing emissions reporting, the government seeks to close loopholes that previously allowed companies to underreport or misrepresent their environmental impact. This move aligns with broader global efforts, including the European Union’s mandatory sustainability reporting framework.

As companies prepare for these new requirements, they face both challenges and opportunities. Understanding the implications of these regulations will be crucial for businesses navigating the evolving landscape of environmental compliance.

Background: The Need for Stricter GHG Reporting

For years, corporate greenhouse gas (GHG) reporting has been largely inconsistent, with many companies voluntarily disclosing emissions data using different methodologies. While some businesses have taken proactive steps toward transparency, others have faced criticism for underreporting or omitting key emissions sources, creating a gap in accurate climate data. This lack of standardization has made it difficult for investors, regulators, and the public to assess corporate environmental impact effectively.

The growing urgency of the climate crisis has increased pressure on governments to tighten regulations. The U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) and the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) have been working to establish clear, enforceable reporting requirements that align with global sustainability goals. Additionally, international frameworks such as the European Union’s Corporate Sustainability Reporting Directive (CSRD) and the Task Force on Climate-related Financial Disclosures (TCFD) have influenced the push for stricter regulations in the U.S.

Beyond regulatory pressure, stakeholders—including investors, customers, and environmental advocates—are demanding greater accountability. Companies that fail to provide transparent emissions data risk reputational damage and potential legal consequences. The new federal rules aim to address these concerns by requiring standardized, verifiable disclosures, ensuring that businesses take responsibility for their environmental impact.

Details of the New Federal Rules

The new federal rules on greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions reporting represent a significant shift in corporate climate disclosure, but recent statements from the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) indicate that some aspects of the regulations are still under review. Legal challenges and stakeholder concerns have led to reconsideration of certain provisions, particularly regarding Scope 3 emissions reporting and compliance costs for smaller businesses.

Key Changes in the SEC Climate Disclosure Rules:

• Mandatory Reporting of Scope 1 and Scope 2 Emissions

  • Scope 1: Direct emissions from company operations.

  • Scope 2: Indirect emissions from purchased energy.

• Scope 3 Emissions Reporting Still Under Review

  • Originally proposed as mandatory for large companies, but now facing legal and industry pushback.

  • Final rules may limit Scope 3 disclosures to certain industries or make them voluntary.

• Third-Party Verification Requirements

  • Companies must ensure the accuracy of emissions data through independent audits.

• Regulatory Uncertainty and Legal Challenges

  • The SEC is facing lawsuits and political opposition, which could delay or modify final implementation.

While the rules aim to align with global reporting standards, the final version will likely be adjusted to address industry concerns and legal risks. Companies should prepare for stricter reporting requirements but remain aware that aspects of the regulation may still change.

Impacts on Businesses and Industries

The uncertainty surrounding the SEC’s climate disclosure rules is creating both challenges and opportunities for businesses. While the move toward greater transparency is seen as a positive step for environmental accountability, the potential costs and legal complexities are raising concerns among corporate leaders.

Compliance Challenges and Costs

One of the biggest concerns is the financial burden of compliance, especially for small and mid-sized companies. Businesses will need to invest in emissions tracking systems, conduct third-party audits, and integrate climate risk assessments into their financial disclosures. If Scope 3 reporting remains part of the final rules, companies with large supply chains could face significant compliance challenges.

Benefits: Transparency, Investor Confidence, and Sustainability

Despite these challenges, clear and standardized reporting could provide long-term business benefits. Investors and regulators increasingly favor companies with strong environmental, social, and governance (ESG) policies, and greater transparency may enhance corporate reputation and access to sustainable investment opportunities. Companies that proactively adopt emissions reduction strategies may also gain a competitive edge as sustainability expectations continue to rise.

Regulatory Uncertainty and Potential Changes

With legal challenges still unfolding, some companies are waiting for final rule adjustments before making major investments in emissions tracking. Businesses should stay informed and prepare for compliance while remaining adaptable to potential modifications in the reporting requirements.

Reactions and Future Implications

The SEC’s revised approach to climate disclosure has sparked mixed reactions. Environmental advocates and ESG-focused investors argue that the rules need to be stronger to ensure full corporate accountability. They are particularly concerned about Scope 3 emissions potentially being dropped from mandatory reporting, as supply chain emissions often make up the majority of a company’s carbon footprint.

On the other hand, business leaders and industry groups have pushed back, citing high compliance costs and legal risks. Some argue that the SEC’s involvement in climate disclosure oversteps its authority, leading to lawsuits and potential delays in implementation.

Looking ahead, businesses should expect continued debate and possible modifications before the rules take full effect. However, the trend toward greater emissions transparency is unlikely to reverse, meaning companies will need to invest in sustainability reporting regardless of how the final SEC rules take shape.

Conclusion

The SEC’s new greenhouse gas (GHG) reporting rules mark a significant step toward corporate climate accountability, but ongoing legal challenges and regulatory uncertainty mean businesses must remain adaptable. While Scope 1 and Scope 2 emissions reporting will likely become standard, the debate over Scope 3 disclosures highlights the complexities of enforcing climate transparency.

For companies, the shift toward stricter reporting represents both a challenge and an opportunity. Proactive businesses that invest in emissions tracking and sustainability efforts will gain a competitive edge in an evolving regulatory landscape. Regardless of final SEC rulings, the push for greater corporate climate accountability is here to stay.

PFAS Regulations in 2025: What EHS Professionals Need to Know

Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) have become a critical focus for environmental, health, and safety (EHS) professionals worldwide. Often referred to as "forever chemicals," PFAS are a group of synthetic compounds used extensively in manufacturing, from nonstick cookware and waterproof textiles to firefighting foam. Their persistence in the environment and bioaccumulation in living organisms pose significant risks to both human health and ecosystems.

The year 2025 marks a pivotal shift in the regulatory landscape for PFAS, as governments worldwide, led by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), implement stricter controls on their production, use, and disposal. For EHS professionals, these changes signify not just compliance challenges but also opportunities to lead sustainability efforts within their organizations.

This article delves into the critical updates to PFAS regulations for 2025, offering insights and actionable strategies to help EHS managers prepare for and adapt to these landmark changes.

What Are PFAS?

Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) represent a vast class of over 12,000 synthetic chemicals characterized by their unique carbon-fluorine bonds. This chemical structure gives PFAS their remarkable stability, making them resistant to heat, water, and oil. These properties have made PFAS indispensable in various industries, including electronics, aerospace, textiles, and food packaging.

However, the very durability that makes PFAS valuable also makes them harmful. Dubbed “forever chemicals,” PFAS do not naturally break down, leading to their accumulation in soil, water, and the human body. Scientific studies have linked prolonged PFAS exposure to severe health risks, including cancer, thyroid disorders, liver damage, and immune system suppression.

PFAS contamination has become a global environmental crisis. These chemicals are frequently detected in drinking water supplies and agricultural lands, causing widespread concern. Regulatory bodies are intensifying efforts to address these issues, recognizing the urgent need to limit PFAS exposure and mitigate their impacts. For EHS professionals, understanding the science and prevalence of PFAS is critical to navigating the evolving regulatory environment and safeguarding their organizations against potential liabilities.

Key Changes in 2025 Regulations

The regulatory framework for PFAS is set to tighten significantly in 2025, with the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) spearheading efforts to address these persistent chemicals. Several new measures aim to curb PFAS production, minimize exposure, and enhance environmental and human health protections.

A major milestone is the EPA’s anticipated finalization of enforceable limits for PFAS in drinking water under the Safe Drinking Water Act. This regulation targets specific compounds like PFOA and PFOS, setting limits as low as 4 parts per trillion (ppt)—a groundbreaking move given the chemicals' widespread detection in water systems. Additionally, new rules will require industries to monitor and report PFAS releases into air, soil, and waterways, ensuring greater transparency and accountability.

The Toxic Substances Control Act (TSCA) is also undergoing revisions. Manufacturers must now disclose PFAS usage in their products and demonstrate efforts to phase out or find safer alternatives. For industries such as textiles, firefighting, and electronics, these updates necessitate significant changes in supply chain management and production processes.

Another critical update involves waste management. Landfills and wastewater treatment facilities are facing stricter guidelines for handling PFAS-laden materials. Compliance will require enhanced treatment technologies and monitoring protocols.

Globally, other countries are following suit. The European Union is advancing its plans to ban over 10,000 PFAS chemicals by 2025, creating additional challenges for multinational corporations. These synchronized efforts reflect growing recognition of PFAS as a global crisis.

For EHS professionals, staying ahead of these regulations is imperative. Understanding these changes enables proactive planning, minimizing risks of noncompliance and reputational damage while fostering sustainable practices.

Implications for EHS Professionals

The upcoming PFAS regulations pose significant challenges and responsibilities for EHS professionals, who play a central role in ensuring organizational compliance and mitigating risks. As the 2025 implementation deadline approaches, EHS managers must adapt their practices to meet heightened standards.

One immediate task is conducting a comprehensive inventory of PFAS usage within the organization. This involves identifying all products, processes, and waste streams that may contain these chemicals. Collaboration with suppliers to obtain detailed material disclosures is also essential, especially for industries heavily reliant on PFAS-containing materials, such as manufacturing, firefighting, and construction.

EHS teams will also need to establish robust monitoring systems to track PFAS emissions and ensure compliance with reporting requirements. This could include sampling water discharges, testing air emissions, and auditing waste disposal practices. Implementing advanced technologies for PFAS detection, such as high-resolution mass spectrometry, can enhance the accuracy of these efforts.

Training and communication are critical components of compliance. Employees at all levels must be educated about the new regulations, their implications, and best practices for managing PFAS-related risks. This ensures organizational alignment and fosters a culture of accountability.

Additionally, EHS managers must prepare for increased scrutiny from regulators and stakeholders. Transparent reporting, backed by data-driven assessments, will be key to maintaining trust and credibility.

By proactively addressing these challenges, EHS professionals not only safeguard their organizations against potential liabilities but also position themselves as leaders in environmental stewardship and sustainability.

Future Trends and Innovations

As PFAS regulations evolve, advancements in technology and policy offer promising pathways for mitigation and management. Emerging solutions, such as activated carbon filters, ion exchange resins, and advanced oxidation processes, are proving effective in reducing PFAS contamination in water systems. Meanwhile, industries are exploring biodegradable alternatives to PFAS, fostering innovation in materials science.

Policy developments are also gaining momentum on the global stage. Initiatives like the European Union’s sweeping restrictions on PFAS and collaborative international efforts signal a shift toward comprehensive, unified action. For EHS professionals, staying abreast of these trends is essential for long-term compliance and environmental leadership.

CORe: Surprise H&S Inspection - Use your Legal Register to be Inspection Ready

Have your company’s offices or stores ever been caught off-guard by an unexpected inspection from the Occupational Health and Safety authority? Imagine scrambling to locate key documents and records to verify compliance, only to find that many required files were incomplete or missing entirely. It’s a stressful situation.

As a CORe member, there is a smart solution to ensure you are always prepared: leverage your CORe Country H&S Legal Register as the foundation for a streamlined and organized system.

Here is how it works: Simply link all relevant records and documents from your office or store directly to the corresponding regulatory items in your H&S legal register or checklist. This transforms your legal register into a powerful compliance tool.

Benefits? Your office or store will be inspection-ready—no more last-minute searches, just a well-prepared, easy-to-access system. It's a simple yet effective solution.

Take note:

• This approach also serves as a central repository for all site H&S documents, and provides easy access.

• Of course, maintaining up-to-date H&S documents is essential for the long-term success of this strategy.

• This approach works best when most or all of your H&S documents are in an electronic format.

To learn more about CORe EHS regulatory compliance tools for offices and stores, please visit Core EHS Legal Compliance Resources or contact convergence consulting at infomail@cc-global.com

October as Biosafety and Biosecurity Month: Promoting Safety and Compliance in Research Environments

Every October, institutions across the country participate in Biosafety and Biosecurity Month, a campaign led by the American Biological Safety Association (ABSA) to promote a culture of safety and responsibility in research environments. This initiative aims to raise awareness about the importance of handling hazardous biological materials safely and emphasizes the ethical responsibilities researchers have to protect both human health and the environment.

The campaign's focus goes beyond compliance; it fosters collaboration between environmental health and safety (EHS) professionals and research staff, encouraging best practices to prevent accidents and biosecurity breaches. As laboratories engage with more advanced research, from infectious disease studies to synthetic biology, the need for strict adherence to biosafety protocols is more critical than ever. This month provides an opportunity for organizations to evaluate and enhance their safety practices, ensuring they meet both regulatory requirements and ethical standards.

What is Biosafety and Biosecurity?

Biosafety and biosecurity are essential components of laboratory and research practices designed to protect individuals, communities, and the environment from exposure to biological hazards. While these terms are often used together, they address different but complementary concerns. Biosafety focuses on the protection of people and the environment from accidental exposure to or release of potentially harmful biological materials. In contrast, biosecurity emphasizes the protection of these materials from theft, misuse, or intentional release, ensuring that pathogens are not used for malicious purposes.

In research and clinical settings, biosafety practices involve protocols such as the correct use of personal protective equipment (PPE), autoclave sterilization, and the safe disposal of medical waste. Biosecurity measures, on the other hand, include access controls, surveillance systems, and tracking biological materials to prevent unauthorized access or diversion of infectious agents.

The increasing complexity of scientific research—such as studies involving genetic engineering, synthetic biology, and high-containment pathogens—requires advanced biosafety and biosecurity frameworks. Organizations like the American Biological Safety Association (ABSA) lead efforts to promote these practices, ensuring that laboratories worldwide adopt robust safety systems to protect public health and research integrity.

The alignment of biosafety and biosecurity also promotes public trust, as researchers demonstrate that their work is conducted safely and responsibly. By adhering to these standards, institutions not only protect their staff but also avoid reputational risks and meet evolving regulatory requirements from agencies like OSHA and the National Institutes of Health (NIH).

Key Campaign Objectives for 2024

The 2024 Biosafety and Biosecurity Month centers on promoting safety stewardship and regulatory compliance across laboratories and research institutions. This year’s campaign emphasizes three core objectives: enhancing collaboration between safety professionals and researchers, ensuring regulatory compliance, and fostering ethical conduct in scientific research.

1. Training and Awareness Building
   A key focus is on increasing awareness and providing targeted training on critical safety protocols, such as handling infectious agents, bloodborne pathogen management, and autoclave operations. Site-specific training led by supervisors is emphasized, ensuring that safety measures are tailored to the specific risks of each laboratory environment. Regular training ensures compliance with federal and state regulations, such as OSHA's mandates on hazardous materials management.

2. Emphasis on Waste Management and Compliance
   Improper disposal of biohazardous and chemical waste poses significant safety risks and can attract financial penalties. The campaign encourages research institutions to conduct routine audits of their waste management practices, involving EHS professionals in annual reviews of waste regulations to maintain compliance. The goal is to prevent accidents and ensure that all hazardous waste is handled according to federal guidelines.

3. Engaging Researchers in Safety Practices
   Beyond compliance, the campaign fosters a culture of safety by engaging researchers directly in discussions about biosecurity. This collaborative approach aims to build trust and ensure that safety practices are integrated into day-to-day operations. The campaign encourages participation from every level of research personnel, from principal investigators to laboratory technicians, emphasizing that safety is a shared responsibility.

By focusing on these objectives, the 2024 campaign aims to enhance operational safety, prevent accidents, and ensure that scientific work is conducted with both integrity and responsibility.

Compliance and Training Requirements

Strict adherence to biosafety and biosecurity regulations is essential for laboratories to avoid accidents, protect staff, and maintain research integrity. Federal and state bodies such as OSHA, the CDC, and the NIH provide frameworks that guide safety protocols, including the proper handling, storage, and disposal of biohazardous materials. Non-compliance can result in severe financial penalties, reputational damage, and increased scrutiny from regulatory agencies.

1. Federal and State Regulatory Requirements
   Regulations such as OSHA’s Bloodborne Pathogens Standard and NIH guidelines for research involving recombinant DNA require laboratories to implement specific biosafety measures. Laboratories must also comply with Hazard Communication (HazCom) standards, which mandate proper labeling and documentation of all hazardous substances used in the lab.

2. Mandatory Training Programs
   Effective biosafety management begins with comprehensive training. Institutions must provide both general and site-specific training to laboratory staff. General training typically covers topics like biohazard waste management, PPE use, and chemical safety, while site-specific sessions address risks unique to a particular lab setting. The 2024 Biosafety and Biosecurity Month highlights the importance of involving supervisors in these training efforts, ensuring that protocols are reviewed before any research activities commence.

3. Risks of Non-Compliance
   Non-compliance with biosafety standards not only increases the risk of accidents but can also result in fines or operational shutdowns. Regulatory bodies conduct routine inspections, and institutions found lacking in compliance may be required to halt projects until safety gaps are addressed. Moreover, research misconduct or negligence in biosecurity protocols can tarnish the reputation of institutions, affecting their ability to secure funding or partnerships in the future.

Practical Steps for Labs to Improve Safety

Laboratories can adopt several practical measures to strengthen their biosafety and biosecurity practices. Implementing these strategies not only reduces the risk of accidents but also ensures compliance with evolving regulations and fosters a culture of continuous improvement in safety management.

1. Conduct Regular Audits and Inspections
   Routine inspections help identify safety gaps before they result in incidents. EHS professionals recommend scheduling annual or semi-annual audits focused on key areas such as waste management, chemical storage, and PPE usage. These inspections ensure that lab conditions align with the latest safety standards and regulatory requirements.

2. Engage EHS Experts and Provide Continuous Training
   One way to enhance safety performance is to involve EHS professionals in lab meetings and training sessions. Continuous education, including refresher courses, ensures that staff stay updated on new regulations and technologies.

3. Establish Clear Communication Channels
   Effective safety management relies on open communication between researchers, supervisors, and EHS teams. Creating platforms for reporting safety concerns, such as anonymous suggestion boxes or digital reporting tools, encourages proactive problem-solving.

4. Integrate Safety into Everyday Operations
   Instead of treating safety as an isolated responsibility, it should be integrated into all aspects of lab operations. Ensuring that safety protocols become routine helps build a sustainable culture of safety.

Conclusion

Biosafety and Biosecurity Month serves as a vital reminder of the importance of safeguarding research environments through comprehensive safety practices and regulatory compliance. Participating in initiatives such as this campaign not only enhances operational safety but also reinforces public trust in scientific research.

OSHA’s Updated HazCom Standard: Enhancing Workplace Safety

The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) has finalized an important update to its Hazard Communication Standard (HazCom), effective July 19, 2024. This update aligns more closely with the Globally Harmonized System (GHS) of Classification and Labelling of Chemicals, which aims to standardize and improve the communication of chemical hazards globally. These changes are designed to enhance the clarity and effectiveness of hazard communication in the workplace, thereby improving overall safety for employees who handle hazardous chemicals. This update is particularly timely given the increasing complexity of global supply chains and the need for consistent and clear hazard communication standards.

One of the most significant changes in the updated HazCom Standard is the new requirement for Safety Data Sheets (SDSs) to include "particle characteristics" for solid products. This includes information on particle size (median and range) and, if available, additional properties such as size distribution, shape, aspect ratio, and specific surface area. This change is aimed at providing more detailed information about the hazardous properties of particles smaller than 100 microns, which pose greater exposure risks, especially through inhalation.

Another major update involves the labeling requirements for bulk shipments. The final rule now codifies an allowance for labels required under OSHA’s HazCom Standard and the Department of Transportation (DOT) Pipeline Hazardous Materials Safety Administration (PHMSA) to appear on the same container. This means that a tanker truck or railcar can now carry both OSHA and DOT/PHMSA labels, streamlining the labeling process for manufacturers and distributors while ensuring compliance with both sets of regulations.

Additional changes include updated classification methods, such as new testing criteria for oxidizing solids and the alignment of certain classification approaches with Canada’s Hazardous Products Regulations (HPR). OSHA has also incorporated guidance on classifying "Corrosive to the Respiratory Tract" hazards and revised the definitions and requirements for other hazard classes, such as flammable liquids and combustible dusts.

These updates are not just cosmetic but functional, aimed at ensuring that workers and employers have access to more precise and comprehensive hazard information. By doing so, OSHA intends to reduce the risks associated with chemical handling and improve overall safety standards across various industries.

The updated HazCom Standard imposes new responsibilities on chemical manufacturers and employers. Chemical manufacturers must ensure that their SDSs are updated to include the new "particle characteristics" information and other revised classification criteria. This requirement emphasizes the importance of providing detailed information about chemical properties to better inform users about potential hazards.

Importers must also ensure that SDSs for foreign products include domestic contact information, making them the responsible party if the SDS does not meet OSHA’s requirements. This change ensures that all hazardous chemicals in the US market are accompanied by relevant safety information that is easily accessible and understandable by local users.

Employers are required to update their hazard communication programs to reflect these changes. This includes revising their SDS libraries, updating labeling practices, and providing additional training to employees on the new hazard communication requirements. Compliance strategies may involve conducting internal audits to ensure that all chemical products are properly labeled and that SDSs are accessible and up-to-date. Employers should also consider leveraging technology, such as digital SDS management systems, to streamline compliance and enhance hazard communication.

Training employees on these new requirements is crucial. Workers need to understand how to read and interpret the updated SDSs and labels to ensure they are fully aware of the hazards associated with the chemicals they are handling. This training should also cover any new safety procedures or protective measures that have been implemented in response to the updated standard.

The updated HazCom Standard is expected to significantly improve the communication of chemical hazards, thereby enhancing workplace safety. By providing more detailed information on particle characteristics and other physical properties, the updated SDSs will enable workers to better understand the risks associated with handling hazardous chemicals. This can lead to more informed decisions about personal protective equipment (PPE) and safe handling practices.

Enhanced labeling requirements for bulk shipments ensure that critical hazard information is clearly communicated, both in transit and at the workplace. This reduces the risk of accidents and exposures during the transportation and handling of hazardous materials. Overall, the updated HazCom Standard aims to create a safer work environment by ensuring that workers have access to clear, accurate, and comprehensive hazard information.

In addition to improving worker safety, these changes are also likely to have broader public health benefits. By reducing the likelihood of chemical spills, exposures, and accidents, the updated standard helps to protect not just workers, but also the surrounding communities and environments. This holistic approach to hazard communication underscores OSHA's commitment to safeguarding public health and safety.

The implementation of the updated HazCom Standard is expected to have a positive impact on workplace safety and compliance. By aligning more closely with international standards, the updated regulations facilitate global trade and reduce the complexity of compliance for multinational companies. The standardization of hazard communication practices across borders helps ensure that workers worldwide receive consistent and reliable information about chemical hazards.

Industry response to the updated standard has been largely positive, with many stakeholders recognizing the benefits of improved hazard communication and the potential for enhanced worker safety. However, there are also concerns about the costs and logistical challenges associated with updating SDSs, labels, and training programs. Companies are encouraged to take a proactive approach to compliance, leveraging available resources and technologies to streamline the transition and ensure that they meet the new requirements in a timely manner.

In the long term, the updated HazCom Standard is expected to contribute to a safer and more informed workforce, reducing the incidence of chemical-related injuries and illnesses. By fostering a culture of safety and compliance, the updated regulations support the broader goal of protecting worker health and safety in industries that handle hazardous chemicals.

Furthermore, the integration of these changes within the HazCom Standard sets a precedent for future updates and improvements. As new scientific data and technologies emerge, OSHA is likely to continue refining its standards to address evolving workplace hazards. This ongoing process of review and enhancement ensures that the HazCom Standard remains relevant and effective in promoting workplace safety.