Oil, gas drilling top cause of ozone pollution in Colorado: report

• The projections suggest oil and gas will account for 45% of nitrogen oxide emissions and 41%of volatile organic compound emissions.
• The error is attributed to a math problem.

Why it matters: The new estimates — prepared for federal authorities — are nearly double the original projections for drilling and hydraulic fracturing expected in 2023, Colorado Public Radio reports.

What they're saying: "The bottom line is we're acknowledging the mistake and we're going to make lemons out of lemonade," says Michael Ogletree, Air Quality Control Division director. "In the end, we'll get an even stronger state implementation plan."

The other side: The oil and gas industry is disputing the data, pointing to other models based on on-the-ground sensors that show vehicle traffic remains the leading source of local pollution.

• Dan Haley, Colorado Oil and Gas Association executive director, says the state's report appears to double count 1,000 wells.

What's next: Colorado regulators will start making new rules on air quality based on the new data this year.