The Trump administration’s recent decision to overturn a major climate rule could significantly affect the environment and economy in Greater Cincinnati.
On February 12, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) announced it is revoking the 2009 Endangerment Finding. This ruling identified carbon dioxide and other greenhouse gases as threats to public health. These emissions trap heat in our atmosphere, contributing to global warming.
The Endangerment Finding was essential for regulating emissions from vehicles and power plants through the Clean Air Act. EPA Administrator Lee Zeldin labeled this repeal as the largest deregulatory move in U.S. history, claiming it could save taxpayers over $1.3 trillion.
However, local environmental groups warn that this rollback will worsen climate change impacts, putting more pressure on residents and local governments. Marilyn Wall from the Sierra Club Miami Group noted that Southwest Ohio has already seen rising temperatures and severe storms. “We’re experiencing more intense rainfall and high winds, all of which harm people and the economy,” she stated.
In response to the repeal, a coalition of health and environmental organizations has sued the EPA.
Public Health Concerns
Less federal oversight of emissions may lead to worse air quality and increase health risks. Scientists point out that air pollutants contribute to respiratory issues, heart disease, and cancer. Van Sullivan, interim executive director at Green Umbrella, highlighted that Cincinnati, which already struggles with poor air quality, will likely see more asthma cases due to increased emissions.
According to the American Lung Association’s 2025 report, Cincinnati ranks as the 14th worst metro area for year-round particle pollution. Moreover, the city is getting hotter. Historically, Cincinnati has about 30 days each year with a heat index over 90°F, but projections suggest this could increase to 79 days in coming decades. Higher temperatures not only heighten the risk of heat-related illnesses but can also expand the habitat for disease-carrying pests like ticks and mosquitoes.
In the EPA’s announcement, the agency claimed that keeping greenhouse gas emission standards is “not necessary” for protecting public health or the environment.
Economic Impacts
Weather-related disasters already cost the U.S. over $150 billion annually, a number expected to rise due to climate change, as detailed in the latest National Climate Assessment. More frequent and intense weather events can lead to devastating economic losses.
Wall recounted a storm in 2016 that overwhelmed Hamilton County with 4.5 inches of rain in a short window. The storm sewer system was not equipped to handle such downpours, leading to costly backups and damage. “As storms worsen, these costs will continue to climb,” she warned.
Sullivan noted that homeowners might also see rising insurance premiums. “Insurance companies often base their rates on climate data, so as climate impacts grow, so do the costs,” he added.
Local Responses
Despite these federal changes, local governments in Greater Cincinnati are stepping up. Cincinnati aims to cut carbon emissions by 50% by 2030 with its 2023 Green Cincinnati Plan. Fairfield and Oxford are also working on similar initiatives, focusing on emission reductions.
Sullivan emphasized the importance of local actions now that federal regulations have weakened. “The burden has shifted significantly, but our community is resilient. We have numerous resources and organizations ready to tackle these challenges together,” he asserted.
In a world where climate change is increasingly pressing, the response at the local level stands crucial. Organizations like Green Umbrella are committed to leading the charge in keeping communities healthy and sustainable in the face of uncertainty.
For further reading on climate change and its impacts, you can refer to the National Climate Assessment.
