Trump’s EPA Just Gutted Pollution Rules and Boosted Fossil Fuels

In a move that could unleash some of the worst Pollution levels in decades, the Trump administration has announced plans to roll back two key environmental protections for U.S. power plants. According to The Guardian, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) unveiled proposals to repeal a landmark climate rule designed to eliminate most greenhouse gas emissions from power plants by the 2030s, and to weaken standards that limit toxic air pollutants like mercury.

EPA administrator Lee Zeldin defended the decision, calling existing rules “burdensome” and claiming the rollbacks would benefit the economy. But health experts, environmental advocates, and scientists strongly disagree. Over 200 public health professionals warned in a letter that the move would “lead to the biggest Pollution increases in decades,” describing it as a direct betrayal of the EPA’s duty to protect public health.

The Biden-era rules targeted fossil fuel-powered electricity plants, which produce about 25% of U.S. greenhouse gas emissions. The Mercury and Air Toxics Standards, in particular, helped reduce neurotoxic Pollution that disproportionately harms children. Coal plants alone are responsible for nearly half of all mercury emissions in the U.S.

The Guardian also reported that several lawmakers backing the rollback have received millions in campaign donations from fossil fuel companies. One, Rep. Rob Bresnahan, even holds personal investments in over 20 fossil fuel firms.

This policy shift comes during a year of climate extremes, with May 2025 marking the second-hottest on record and warnings of rising seas and collapsing global GDP. Critics say the rollback prioritizes fossil fuel profits over public safety and the planet’s future.

If we want cleaner air, safer communities, and a livable planet for the next generation, we must act. Support clean energy, reject fossil fuel greenwashing, and vote for leaders who take climate justice seriously.

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