By MICHAEL PHILLIS and ALEXA ST. JOHN, Associated Press
Over the past four years, the Environmental Protection Agency has placed a strong emphasis on environmental justice, striving to enhance the health conditions in communities heavily affected by pollution and predominantly consisting of Black, Latino, and low-income individuals. However, this focus has come to an end.
President Donald Trump, in his initial week in office, disbanded a team of White House advisors responsible for ensuring that the entire federal government supported communities located near industrial facilities, ports, and highways. Trump also terminated the “Justice40” initiative established by the Biden administration, which mandated that 40% of the benefits from specific environmental programs be directed towards disadvantaged communities.
Experts believe that under the current administration, the assessment of new facilities will likely overlook the potential exacerbation of existing pollution in affected communities. Trump’s actions are expected to impede the allocation of funds from the Biden administration’s key climate legislation, the Inflation Reduction Act, for climate initiatives and environmental justice.
By revoking federal policies dating back to the Clinton era that prioritized addressing environmental health issues in low-income and minority groups, Trump has also withdrawn the nation from the Paris Agreement aimed at combating climate change.
According to Joe Luppino-Esposito, federal policy chief at the Pacific Legal Foundation, the new administration seeks to both roll back what they deem as burdensome environmental regulations inhibiting development and combat diversity, equity, and inclusion. Luppino-Esposito argues that past discrimination should not justify future discrimination, highlighting that Trump’s executive orders aim to enforce the law without racial bias.
Despite the strides made by the Biden administration in the realm of environmental justice, many experts acknowledge that the current situation marks a significant setback. The EPA, under Biden, implemented public health regulations, stringent air pollution standards, and initiatives to address harmful lead pipes. The agency also imposed record fines under the Clean Air Act and reduced over 225 million pounds of pollution in overburdened communities. Additionally, federal grants were allocated to aid in the cleanup of Superfund sites and the acquisition of low-emission school buses.
Jade Begay, an Indigenous rights and climate organizer in New Mexico, expressed sorrow over the losses incurred and the regression from the positive trajectory that had been established.
Environmental justice efforts have historically fluctuated based on the administration in power, with grassroots organizations often persevering with limited support. The Biden administration elevated the profile of environmental justice, making it a target for opposition, according to Christophe Courchesne, a law professor at the Vermont Law and Graduate School.
While the Trump administration emphasizes working towards clean air, land, and water, the recent policy changes diverge from the approach taken during Trump’s previous term. The directive to eliminate jobs dedicated to environmental justice and diversity, equity, and inclusion further signifies a shift in priorities.
As the landscape changes, advocacy for environmental justice will likely shift to the state and local levels, presenting challenges in states less receptive to such initiatives. The dismantling of federal support will undoubtedly impact local organizations, necessitating a reevaluation of strategies for sustaining environmental efforts.
As the environmental justice landscape evolves, organizations are preparing to adapt and persevere despite the challenges posed by shifting policies and priorities.
St. John reported from Detroit. Associated Press writer Matthew Daly contributed reporting from Washington.
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