The Trump administration plans to overturn its own 2009 conclusion that greenhouse gases endanger public health and contribute to global warming. This decision, known as the “endangerment finding,” originally required the federal government to regulate emissions from six gases released by burning oil, gas, and coal.
Sweeping Deregulation
EPA Secretary Lee Zeldin announced on X on Tuesday that the administration is preparing to announce what he called “the single largest act of deregulation in the history of the USA.” The reversal of the endangerment finding would remove the legal basis for regulating these emissions and could lead to the elimination of emissions standards for cars and trucks, as well as reporting requirements for power plants and industries.
The EPA’s draft rule reportedly states the original endangerment finding overstated the risks of heat waves and underestimated the benefits of increased carbon pollution.
Previous Attempts to Undermine Climate Science
The Trump administration previously attempted to undermine the science behind the endangerment finding by convening a group of “climate contrarians” at the Department of Energy. This group produced a report containing long-debunked climate denial talking points. However, the Union of Concerned Scientists and the Environmental Defense Fund successfully challenged this effort in court, resulting in the disbandment of the group and the release of over 100,000 pages of related documents.
Broader Implications
According to Gretchen Goldman, president and CEO of the Union of Concerned Scientists, this action is part of a broader effort to provide benefits to the fossil fuel industry, potentially at the expense of communities already facing disproportionate impacts from pollution. This decision comes a month after the U.S. Withdrew from the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change.
The rollback of emissions standards for cars and trucks, emphasized by White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt, could also have significant consequences. Previous standards, developed under the prior administration, were designed to reduce dependence on fossil fuels, save consumers money, and reduce air pollution.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the “endangerment finding”?
The “endangerment finding” is the EPA’s conclusion that greenhouse gases endanger public health and contribute to global warming, established in 2009.
What impact will this have on auto standards?
The administration is expected to roll back emissions standards for cars and trucks, potentially increasing fuel consumption and pollution.
What was the Trump administration’s previous attempt to challenge climate science?
The Trump administration convened a group of “climate contrarians” at the Department of Energy to produce a report questioning established climate science, but this effort was challenged and ultimately overturned in court.
How will these changes affect the future of climate policy in the U.S.?
