Feb 12 β€’ 21:45 UTC πŸ‡¦πŸ‡Ί Australia ABC News AU

Trump repeals power to regulate climate, axes vehicle emissions rules

The Trump administration has rescinded a key scientific finding that underpinned federal efforts to combat climate change, along with curbing vehicle emissions.

The Trump administration has taken significant steps to roll back federal climate regulations by revoking the 'endangerment finding' established during the Obama presidency. This scientific determination was pivotal as it concluded that carbon dioxide and other greenhouse gases posed a threat to public health and welfare, thus forming the legal foundation for a wide range of regulatory measures aimed at fighting climate change. By overturning this finding, the Trump administration has effectively dismantled a crucial component that facilitated regulatory oversight of greenhouse gas emissions.

In addition to repealing the endangerment finding, the administration also eliminated the regulatory requirements that mandated the measurement, reporting, and compliance with federal greenhouse gas emission standards for vehicles. This decision reflects a broader initiative to reduce federal regulations that the Trump administration deems burdensome and unnecessary. Critics of the repeal argue that it could have dire consequences for air quality and public health, especially as the evidence for climate change intensifies.

The implications of this move extend beyond immediate regulatory changes; it signals a fundamental shift in U.S. policy towards climate action. With the rollback of established scientific findings as a basis for regulation, the potential for increased greenhouse gas emissions becomes more pronounced. This aligns with the Trump administration's notorious stance on climate change, contrasting sharply with the previous administration's efforts and raising concerns among environmental groups, public health advocates, and the scientific community about the future of climate action in the United States.

πŸ“‘ Similar Coverage