The Union of Concerned Scientists has recently published a groundbreaking report and an interactive map titled “Dirty Air, Dirty Deeds.” This report sheds light on the concerning fact that more than one-third of coal plants, chemical manufacturers, coke ovens, and other industrial facilities have been granted exemptions from multiple clean air regulations that were established to safeguard communities from toxic air pollution. These exemptions have been granted without proper public consultation, undermining the health and well-being of communities across the United States.
In a controversial move in March 2025, President Trump invoked a provision in the Clean Air Act, typically reserved for national emergencies, to provide a two-year exemption to industries emitting hazardous air pollutants. This exemption process required no clear application or criteria, merely an email to the EPA. As a result, facilities regulated under seven out of nine clean air regulations have been granted exemptions, with more likely to follow. These regulations were strengthened under the Biden administration to protect communities from harmful emissions, and their rollback poses a significant threat to public health.
The impact of these exemptions is particularly severe for already overburdened communities, where nearly 4.6 million people live within two miles of an exemption-eligible facility. These communities are at a heightened risk of exposure to toxic pollutants, with over 4,300 schools and childcare centers located in close proximity to these facilities. States like Texas, Louisiana, Pennsylvania, and Illinois have the highest number of exempted facilities, further exacerbating the environmental risks faced by residents.
UCS has identified 60 clusters where multiple exemption-eligible facilities are located within two miles of each other, compounding the potential harm to these communities. The majority of these facilities are situated in areas classified as high or extreme risk according to the CDC’s Environmental Justice and Climate Burden Index, indicating a significant cumulative impact on residents’ health and well-being.
The interactive map provided by UCS allows users to explore the locations of exemption-eligible facilities, along with key demographic and environmental data for each site. By clicking on individual points on the map, users can access information such as the facility name, location, and the rule under which it is regulated. This map serves as a valuable tool for raising awareness about the risks posed by these exemptions and advocating for stronger environmental protections.
In light of these concerning developments, it is essential for the public to take action and hold the Trump administration and the EPA accountable for jeopardizing public health. By sharing this information with community members and contacting congressional representatives to demand accountability for these exemptions, individuals can play a crucial role in safeguarding the well-being of their communities and ensuring access to clean air for all.
