Advocates Warn: EPA’s Climate Rule Rollback Poses Serious Risks to Pittsburgh Residents

Local advocates are concerned about recent actions by the Trump administration to weaken regulations on climate pollution. They warn that these changes will negatively impact residents in Southwestern Pennsylvania.

In 2009, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) identified greenhouse gases as a threat to public health. This led to policies aimed at reducing pollution from cars and power plants. Now, the Trump administration is trying to rescind those findings, claiming they hurt the auto industry.

Jim Welty, president of the Marcellus Shale Coalition, called the original 2009 finding “flawed,” suggesting it was influenced by political agendas. Meanwhile, local officials are assessing the potential effects of this proposal. Dr. Iulia Vann, from the Allegheny County Health Department, expressed concern about reversing progress made in pollution reduction.

Patrick Campbell, leader of the Group Against Smog and Pollution, described the proposal as frightening. He noted that Pittsburgh already struggles with air quality due to industrial activities. He believes this change will disproportionately affect vulnerable communities.

There will be opportunities for community input on this issue. Virtual hearings are scheduled for August 19 and 20, and comments can be submitted until September 15.

Chatham University student Marley McFarland expressed disappointment at leaders who deny climate change. She feels it impacts young people’s mental health, but remains hopeful about making local changes through advocacy.

Natalie Ford, an environmental justice organizer with 412 Justice, emphasized the need for officials to prioritize public health. Although Pittsburgh has seen improvements, its air quality remains poor, earning a D for ozone and an F for particulate pollution from the American Lung Association. Ford fears that progress made could be undone.

More alarming is data showing that children living near industrial sites in Allegheny County are nearly three times more likely to have asthma than the national average. If the Trump administration’s proposal goes through, it may face legal challenges. Robert Routh, Pennsylvania Policy Director for the Natural Resources Defense Council, argues that overturning the 2009 finding would go against scientific consensus.

The effects of climate change are becoming increasingly evident. In 2022, the U.S. experienced 27 weather events that each caused damages exceeding $1 billion, according to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration.

These developments underline the critical intersection of health, policy, and environmental stewardship in the Pittsburgh area. As community members voice their concerns, it remains to be seen how these discussions will shape future regulations and public health outcomes.



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