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Home Latest List of climate & environmental laws slashed by Trump administration

List of climate & environmental laws slashed by Trump administration

The Trump administration is reversing over 30 environmental rules, easing pollution limits for cars and power plants. EPA may also scrap a key climate report, weakening future laws. Critics warn of higher emissions, health risks, & climate instability.

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The United States prides itself on being a global leader and superpower in innovation, economy, and influence. But what happens when that power weakens protections forclean air, safewater, and a stable climate? The Trump administration has attacked environmental regulations, dismantling over 30 key rules in two hours. The administration is prioritising deregulation over public health by rolling back pollution limits for cars and power plants and scrapping toxic chemical protections. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is reconsidering the foundation of climate policies—whether climate change is a real threat needing government action.

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Trump weakens climate protection rules

As industries adjust and environmental advocates raise concerns, the question persists: Is this the route towards a more robust America, or are we preparing for a future marked by contaminated air, ailing communities, and unmanaged climate catastrophes?

On Wednesday, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) announced plans to remove or change over 30 pollution control rules, including limits on harmful substances like soot, mercury, and coal ash. The administration is questioning a key scientific report stating climate change is a serious public threat. If dismissed, it could hinder future climate laws.

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EPA Administrator Lee Zeldin defended the decision, saying, “We’re driving a dagger into the heart of the climate change religion. This is about lowering costs for American families, bringing back auto jobs, and unleashing American energy.”

Trump admin’s regulatory rollbacks (March 12, 2025)

RegulationChange AnnouncedPotential ImpactSupportersOpponents
Clean Water Act ProtectionsNarrowed definition of protected waterways, easing pollution limitsIncreased runoff pollution from agriculture, mining, and petrochemicalsAgriculture, mining, and petrochemical industriesEnvironmental groups
Power Plant Emissions RuleReviewing Biden-era rule on carbon emissions reductionHigher greenhouse gas emissions from power plantsCoal industry, National Mining AssociationClimate activists, public health groups
Auto Emissions StandardsRolled back limits on greenhouse gas emissions for vehicles (2027+)Increased air pollution and carbon emissionsAutomotive industry, oil companiesEnvironmental groups, health advocates
2009 Endangerment FindingMoving to undo finding that greenhouse gases endanger public healthWeakens EPA’s ability to regulate carbon emissionsFossil fuel industryScientists, climate activists
Mercury and Air Toxics Standards (MATS)Reconsidering updated Biden-era standards for coal plantsHigher mercury and toxic air pollutionCoal industryEnvironmentalists, public health experts
Soot and Particulate Matter StandardsRevisiting stricter air pollution rulesIncreased risk of respiratory diseasesIndustrial groupsHealth organizations, environmentalists
Methane Emissions ReportingNo longer requiring oil and gas companies to report emissionsMore methane leaks, worsening climate changeOil & gas companiesClimate groups, EPA scientists
Reuse of Drilling WastewaterConsidering allowing reuse for agriculture and industryPotential contamination of water sourcesEnergy industryFarmers, water safety advocates
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Impact on vehicles and power plants

One of the biggest changes will affect car manufacturers. The Biden administration had introduced rules requiring automakers to make more electric and fuel-efficient cars. Trump criticised these rules, calling them an “EV mandate.” Now, the EPA is considering rolling them back.

Coal and gas power plants are also affected. Previously, they had to cut 90% of their pollution by 2032, but this rule is likely to be removed.

Industry leaders responded cautiously to the announcement. John Bozzella, head of the Alliance for Automotive Innovation, said, “A balanced approach to emissions is key to preserving vehicle choice, keeping the industry competitive, and supporting national security.”

Environmental groups opposed the changes. Jackie Wong, an expert at the Natural Resources Defense Council, said, “The EPA has abandoned its duty to protect human health and the environment. This could lead to higher energy bills, more asthma and heart attacks, and more extreme weather events.”

The decision to remove car pollution rules came a day after Trump hosted an electric car event at the White House attended by Tesla CEO Elon Musk, where Trump said he planned to buy a Tesla.

“I haven’t driven a car in a long time, and I love to drive,” Trump told reporters. “I’m going to have it at the White House and let my staff use it.”

This statement surprised many, as Trump had often criticised electric vehicles while campaigning. However, his growing relationship with Musk may have influenced his views.

What’s next?

Although the EPA announced these rollbacks, they aren’tfinal. Removing rules takes time, and legal challenges could delay or stop changes. Many experts believe this back-and-forth on climate policies creates uncertainty for industries planning years in advance.

Alex Bond, a clean energy expert, said, “Electric companies need stable rules. Without them, they will face a mix of different state regulations, increasing costs and causing power supply issues.”

As the climate policies debate continues, it’s clear America is moving away from strict pollution controls. Will this decision help businesses, or will it hurt the environment and public health in the long run?

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