1A The Future Of Environmental Policy
Mar 25, 2025
Zahra Hirji, a climate reporter with Bloomberg News, and Zeland Hoover, a former senior advisor to the EPA, dive into the tumultuous state of U.S. environmental policy. They discuss the detrimental impact of budget cuts and staff reductions on the EPA and environmental justice efforts. The implications of the Trump administration's regulatory rollbacks are explored, particularly their effects on vulnerable populations. Additionally, the conversation highlights the importance of civic engagement in advocating for effective environmental protection.
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EPA Cuts Under Trump Administration
- The Trump administration's EPA proposed deep budget cuts, including a 65% reduction.
- This follows actions like pulling out of the Paris Agreement and rolling back regulations.
Endangerment Finding
- The endangerment finding, established over a decade ago, declares greenhouse gasses a public health risk.
- This finding is the basis for many regulations curbing greenhouse gas pollution.
Environmental Justice Office on Leave
- Amy, an EPA employee, was put on administrative leave after Trump took office.
- She describes the Office of Environmental Justice's role in identifying and assisting populations most vulnerable to pollution.