EPA to retract recognition of greenhouse gas harm
TL/DR –
The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is planning to reverse its 2009 declaration that recognizes greenhouse gases as harmful to the environment, a move which could significantly alter the enforcement of energy use and environmental regulations in the U.S. Moreover, President Trump plans to cut the agency’s workforce by up to 65%. This comes amidst allegations by EPA Administrator Lee Zeldin that the Biden administration used the EPA to distribute $20 million to nonprofits via the Inflation Reduction Act.
EPA to Reverse 2009 Greenhouse Gas Declaration
The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is reportedly planning to reverse its 2009 declaration that recognized greenhouse gases as harmful to the environment, The Washington Post reports.
Major Changes in Environmental Regulations Expected
Insiders reveal that EPA Administrator Lee Zeldin suggested the move to the White House. This reversal could result in significant changes in how the U.S. implements environmental regulations and energy use.
Drastic Workforce Reduction at EPA
During a recent cabinet meeting, President Trump proposed cutting a substantial portion of the agency’s staff. The EPA workforce could shrink by up to 65%, according to the President.
“We aim to retain those doing essential and effective work,” stated Elon Musk, head of the Department of Government Efficiency. “However, non-essential or ineffective employees should not be on the public payroll.”
Resignation Over Funding Initiative Investigation
Denise Cheung, the lead criminal prosecutor at the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Columbia, recently resigned following her refusal to investigate a Biden administration EPA funding initiative. Zeldin alleged that the Biden administration had channeled $20 million to nonprofits via the Inflation Reduction Act.
Climate Change Skepticism
Zeldin criticized these findings, comparing it to “throwing gold bars off the Titanic.” The Trump administration is using such strategies to cast doubt on climate change initiatives. Secretary of Energy Chris Wright condemned the efforts to reach net zero carbon emissions by 2050 as “detrimental.”
“Net zero 2050 is a disastrous target, it’s both unattainable by all practical means and has led to significant costs without any benefits,” Wright noted.
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