Donald Trump has frequently claimed that “climate change is a hoax.” Recently, he made waves by rolling back key environmental regulations. This change is seen as one of the biggest deregulatory moves in American history. Under Trump, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) no longer had to follow established science about greenhouse gases (GHGs) and their harm.
The Department of Energy formed a panel of scientists to write a report undermining accepted science on GHGs. As a result, the EPA has now eased restrictions on GHG emissions from vehicles. This is especially concerning because transportation is the biggest source of GHG emissions in the U.S.
While electric vehicle (EV) sales have surged due to incentives from the Biden administration, the overall shift to greener transportation is happening too slowly. The previous administration cut important subsidies for EVs and renewable energy. As a result, automakers are less motivated to produce electric cars.
This trend goes against the global push for climate action. Renewable energy use is rising worldwide, but interest in net-zero targets in developed countries is faltering. This decline partly stems from misinformation. Leaders like Biden have struggled to explain that sustainability can lead to economic benefits. Climate skeptics like Trump have found opportunities to thrive in this environment.
A recent study from the International Energy Agency noted that while global renewable energy capacity grew by 9% last year, the U.S. is lagging. The country still emits a large number of greenhouse gases, contributing to climate change and its associated risks. According to data from Climate Action Tracker, the U.S. needs to cut emissions by at least 50% from 2005 levels by 2030 to meet global climate goals.
Experts argue that without strong policies and public support, efforts to combat climate change will remain insufficient. Social media reactions show a growing divide: many support green initiatives, while others echo skepticism about climate science.
The stakes are high. Climate change affects not only the environment but also public health and the economy. As the world moves toward a greener future, the challenge will be to unite around effective solutions.
Source link
Environmental Protection Agency, US Environmental Protection Agency, donald trump, donald trump admin, climate denialism, Climate change, global warming, editorial, Indian express, opinion news, current affairs
