The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has recently announced a series of actions that are aimed at rolling back crucial regulations that protect public health and the environment. EPA Administrator Lee Zeldin has specifically called for a reconsideration of the 2009 Endangerment Finding, which forms the basis for regulating greenhouse gas emissions. Despite the overwhelming scientific consensus on human-caused climate change and the harmful impacts it has on public health, the Trump administration is determined to undermine these findings.
The 2009 Endangerment Finding and the Cause or Contribute Finding were established following a landmark Supreme Court ruling in 2007, which recognized greenhouse gas emissions as air pollutants covered by the Clean Air Act. These findings provide the legal basis for EPA to set pollution limits for emissions from vehicles, power plants, and other sources.
However, industry interests and the current administration have long sought to weaken or overturn these regulations. With Administrator Zeldin leading the charge, there is a real threat to the progress made in addressing climate change and protecting public health.
The proposed reconsideration of the Endangerment Finding is based on flawed arguments that seek to discredit the overwhelming scientific evidence supporting the need for regulation of greenhouse gas emissions. Despite attempts to undermine the findings, the science behind climate change and its impacts on human health remains solid.
It is crucial to remember that the law mandates an independent scientific determination of endangerment, without consideration of costs to industry. The EPA used well-established methodologies in its assessment of greenhouse gases and has the responsibility and authority to regulate major sources of these emissions.
Administrator Zeldin’s actions at the EPA represent a complete subversion of the agency’s mission to protect public health and the environment. His rhetoric and efforts to dismantle regulations are alarming and put the interests of polluters above those of the public.
The fight to defend the Endangerment Finding and uphold public health protections is far from over. Public comments on the proposed reconsideration can help counter false claims and ensure that the science-based findings are upheld. It is essential to stay informed and engaged in this critical issue to protect our health and the environment.
UCS will continue to monitor developments related to the Endangerment Finding and provide opportunities for individuals to voice their support for science-based regulations. Together, we can push back against attempts to weaken environmental protections and safeguard our planet for future generations.
