Trump’s 2nd term might overturn US climate policies – Planet Detroit
TL/DR –
Donald Trump’s election as president and Republican control of the U.S Senate could reverse key national climate policies such as the Inflation Reduction Act that aims to reduce U.S emissions by 40% by 2030, as Trump plans to boost fossil fuel production. Trump’s administration may also target the Biden administration’s tailpipe emission rules for vehicles, potentially slowing the shift to electric cars. Measures under risk include the EPA’s rule forcing many coal-fired plants to capture 90% of their carbon emissions or shut down within eight years, the first national rules on methane leakage from oil and gas equipment, and rules on tailpipe emissions from cars and trucks.
Trump’s Election and Climate Policy Reversals
Donald Trump’s election for a second term as president and the Republican control of the U.S. Senate may rollback numerous national climate policies, say experts specializing in climate solutions.
These policy reversals come in light of escalating climate challenges – increasing heat waves, record levels of atmospheric climate pollution, and costly hurricanes. The potential target list includes the Inflation Reduction Act and regulation for vehicle emissions.
The Inflation Reduction Act
The Inflation Reduction Act is a vital law slated to cut U.S. emissions by around 40% by 2030. It encourages clean energy substitutes, credits for new solar and wind farms, and gives tax credits to electric car buyers. However, Trump aims to boost fossil fuel production by overturning the Act and ending subsidies for wind power.
Pollution from Power Plants
The main U.S. rule to reduce carbon emissions from coal-burning power plants is also under threat. Trump’s win means the Justice Department is unlikely to defend this rule.
Limiting Methane Leaks
The Biden administration pursued reducing methane emissions, one of the principal pollutants exacerbating climate events. However, with Trump’s presidency, this rule is likely to face challenges.
Fuel-Efficient Vehicles
Under Trump’s administration, the strong rules on tailpipe emissions established by Biden’s Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) may be repealed. Trump incorrectly labels these regulations as electric vehicle mandates.
Drilling in Alaska Refuge
Trump is likely to reinstate oil drilling in Alaska’s Arctic National Wildlife Refuge, a move opposed by Democratic presidents due to its environmental impact.
Transition to Cleaner Energy
Despite the federal leadership’s potential neglect of climate issues, experts believe states will continue progressing towards cleaner energy. State, city, utility, and business committed to net-zero emissions will persist in their efforts towards cleaner energy solutions.
Sign-Up for Planet Detroit Newsletters
Become part of Planet Detroit’s community by signing up for our free weekly newsletter, providing comprehensive climate and environmental coverage.
—
Read More US Economic News