Helping Maryland Craft a Net-Zero Path

The state of Maryland embraced a monumental challenge: reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 60 percent by 2031 and achieve net-zero by 2045. But with emissions spanning multiple sectors—transportation, buildings, and industry—the state needed an innovative solution that would not only cut emissions but also maintain economic stability.

With longstanding expertise in carbon pricing, emissions trading, and environmental economics, Resources for the Future (RFF) was uniquely qualified to help.

Our team of experts was called on to examine Maryland’s specific needs and climate goals, drawing on lessons from the Regional Greenhouse Gas Initiative and the experiences of other states. We also explored ways to align Maryland’s efforts with federal initiatives and regional programs, enhancing both the scalability and efficiency of its approach to maximize economic and environmental benefits.

The design options provided by RFF will allow for Maryland state officials to develop a comprehensive cap-and-invest program uniquely tailored to Maryland’s economy and environmental landscape. Such a program would address a wide range of emissions sources—transportation, industrial activities, and building energy use—while setting a steadily declining cap on emissions across the entire state.

With our research in hand, Maryland’s policymakers now have the tools to craft climate regulations that will help the state meet its ambitious targets, reduce pollution, and invest in a sustainable future.

At RFF, we’re proud to tackle complex challenges like these. Our unique combination of expert economic analysis and trusted relationships allows us to provide solutions that benefit both the environment and the economy.

Thanks to the support we receive from friends like you, we’re able to invest in the people, research, and partnerships that enable us to keep being called upon to solve some of the toughest environmental economic challenges.