EPA to review landmark 2009 finding that greenhouse gases are a danger to public health

The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) made a significant announcement on Wednesday, stating that it would be “formally reconsidering” the 2009 finding that greenhouse gases pose a danger to public health. This decision is part of a series of actions by the EPA to roll back environmental regulations, including rules surrounding pollution from coal-fired power plants and electric vehicles. Additionally, the EPA announced plans to narrow the definition of waterways protected under the Clean Water Act, such as wetlands and streams.

This move by the EPA marks the beginning of a lengthy process to repeal or revise numerous environmental rules, with a total of 31 regulations being targeted. Some of the key areas that will be reconsidered include wastewater discharges for oil and gas extraction facilities, reporting requirements for the oil and gas industry related to greenhouse gas emissions, regulations concerning coal ash and coal-fired power plants, as well as national air quality standards for particulate matter.

EPA Administrator Lee Zeldin expressed his support for the rollback of these regulations, stating that it signifies a shift away from what he referred to as the “climate-change religion.” Zeldin emphasized that the Trump Administration is focused on promoting national prosperity, energy security, and consumer choice, rather than prioritizing climate regulations that he believes hinder industry growth.

The EPA’s “endangerment finding,” which has served as a foundation for climate change initiatives in the U.S., will be officially reconsidered after 16 years. This finding, established during the Obama administration, concluded that greenhouse gases contribute to public health and welfare risks. Environmentalists have been quick to condemn the EPA’s decision, with many suggesting that legal challenges will be mounted in response to the policy shift.

Overall, the EPA’s recent actions have sparked debate and controversy, with environmental advocates expressing concerns about the potential implications of rolling back key environmental regulations. The future of climate change policy in the U.S. remains uncertain as the EPA continues to reassess its approach to addressing environmental challenges.