The Trump administration's recent proposal to weaken regulations on coal ash residue has sparked widespread opposition from environmental advocates. At a virtual public comment hearing hosted by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, many voiced strong opposition to the proposed new regulations.
What Happened
The Trump administration announced in April that it would repeal a rule put in place in 2024 by the Biden administration's EPA that required utilities to monitor coal ash sites at inactive coal plants. The Trump EPA also said it would loosen requirements for protecting groundwater near those sites.
- The proposal would rely on states for coal ash monitoring and enforcement.
- Environmentalists argue that this would jeopardize the nation's drinking water supplies.
- Lisa Evans, senior counsel at Earthjustice and a former EPA attorney, said, "The Trump administration has jeopardized the nation's drinking water supplies as a favor to polluters."
Why It Matters
Climate change is having a devastating impact on the United States, with Michigan emerging as one of the worst-hit states. The state saw 33 tornadoes last year and severe flooding, with researchers saying links to climate change are undeniable.
- A volunteer works to clear debris after a suspected tornado hit the area a day earlier, in Union City, Michigan.
- The tornado hit west Ann Arbor at 1.45am on 15 April, passing through Veterans Memorial park.
What Experts Say
Adam Morton writes that BHP, the world's biggest miner, has made big climate promises, but now it must do the real work of slashing emissions. Australian taxpayers subsidize Big Mining's use of fossil fuel to the tune of $4 billion a year.
"BHP is not alone among its peers in winding back climate action … Other major corporations have either jumped in fear of Donald Trump or used his rise as an excuse to drop climate commitments." — Adam Morton
Key Facts
- Who: Environmental advocates, EPA, BHP
- What: Proposed rollbacks on coal ash regulations, climate promises
- Impact: Jeopardized drinking water supplies, devastating climate impact
What Comes Next
As the climate crisis escalates, it remains to be seen whether the US can reverse its missteps and take meaningful action to address the issue. Environmentalists will continue to push back against rollbacks, and corporations will be expected to follow through on their climate promises.