Trump’s EPA Undermines Climate Action: The Endangerment Finding at Risk of Becoming Official Policy

Washington, D.C. — The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has announced a plan to dismantle the Endangerment Finding, a crucial scientific conclusion that links greenhouse gas emissions from vehicles and plants to public health risks and environmental harm. This new approach also aims to remove current greenhouse gas standards for motor vehicles, impacting cars and heavy trucks.

The Clean Air Act requires the EPA to safeguard people from air pollutants that may jeopardize health and well-being. However, this latest proposal seems to ignore established science and create legal loopholes, despite the Supreme Court affirming the EPA’s authority over greenhouse gases over a decade ago.

Abigail Dillen, President of Earthjustice, expressed concern about the implications of this proposal. She said that the current administration is downplaying the severe effects of pollution related to climate change, even as extreme weather events continue to rise. “This announcement signals the end of U.S. efforts to combat climate change,” she stated. “For industries that contribute to climate issues, the message is clear: pollute more.”

Historically, the Supreme Court ruling in Massachusetts vs. EPA (2007) was a pivotal moment. The court declared that greenhouse gases fall under the Clean Air Act’s definition of air pollutants, mandating the EPA to assess their risks to health. In 2009, the EPA confirmed that carbon dioxide and other gases do pose health risks. This finding has been challenged by fossil fuel companies and right-wing organizations but has consistently been upheld by the courts.

The Endangerment Finding underpins various EPA regulations, including the Power Plant Rule and Clean Car and Truck Standards, both of which face potential rollbacks under the current proposal.

As this situation unfolds, experts are weighing in on the consequences. Recent surveys show that 65% of Americans believe that climate change is affecting their daily lives, reflecting a rising awareness of these issues. People are reacting strongly on social media, with many expressing frustration over what they see as a regression in climate action.

The EPA will open a comment period for public input on this proposal, and groups like Earthjustice plan to respond with detailed feedback. A final decision is expected by the end of the year, and the fight against climate change continues.

For more detailed information, you can refer to the EPA’s official announcement here.

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