Donald Trump’s presidency (2017–2021) brought about a notable change in U.S. environmental and sustainability policy. As the world continues to face mounting climate challenges, understanding the impact of his first-term policies and anticipating the potential direction of a second Trump administration is essential.
Trump’s Environmental Policies from 2017 to 2021
In 2017, Trump declared that the U.S. would withdraw from the Paris Climate Agreement, claiming that the agreement imposed an unfair economic strain on American industries and workers. The official withdrawal took place on November 4, 2020.
Over 100 environmental rules and regulations were reversed or weakened during Trump’s administration. Notable rollbacks included:
- The Clean Power Plan is designed to cut carbon emissions from power plants.
- Fuel efficiency standards for vehicles.
- Methane emission regulations for oil and gas facilities.
These adjustments were presented to eliminate regulatory burdens, stimulate economic growth, and create jobs.
Expansion of Fossil Fuel Industries – Trump focused on achieving “energy dominance” by increasing oil and gas drilling, even in contentious regions such as the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge (ANWR). He also gave the green light to the Keystone XL Pipeline and the Dakota Access Pipeline.
The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) faced substantial proposed budget cuts, which could hinder its capacity to enforce environmental laws and regulations.
During the COVID-19 crisis, regulatory changes reshaped environmental oversight. On March 26, 2020, the EPA temporarily suspended enforcement of environmental regulations for companies affected by pandemic disruptions, ending August 31, 2020. President Trump also issued an executive order to fast-track infrastructure projects under key ecological laws to boost economic recovery.
Potential Environmental Policies in a Trump 2.0
Donald Trump secures a second presidency, and experts anticipate a continuation of his first-term priorities, with a strong focus on deregulation, increased fossil fuel production, and a rollback of environmental protections. Policies may include withdrawing from international climate agreements, reducing funding for renewable energy initiatives, and prioritising economic growth over environmental concerns. This approach could significantly impact global climate efforts and reshape the United States environmental policy landscape.
Reaffirmation of Fossil Fuel Development
Trump has indicated plans to expand oil and gas extraction on federally owned lands and waters, focusing on regions such as the Gulf of Mexico and the Western United States. One key area of concern for environmental advocates is the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge (ANWR), where a 2017 tax bill mandated at least two lease sales for oil and gas drilling in its 1.6 million-acre coastal plain. While the Biden administration has paused these leases and introduced development restrictions, Trump has signalled intentions to reinstate these initiatives.
Rollback of Environmental Regulations
In his second term, Trump is expected to revisit his decision to withdraw the U.S. from the Paris Climate Agreement and may de-prioritise policies to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. His administration could also take a less active stance on global environmental agreements, such as efforts to establish a treaty on plastic waste or biodiversity preservation initiatives. Under a second Trump presidency, global climate agreements and environmental commitments might receive less emphasis in favour of domestic priorities.
Impact of the Supreme Court’s Chevron Decision
The U.S. Supreme Court’s recent decision to overturn the Chevron deference—a precedent that gave federal agencies the authority to interpret ambiguous statutes—could provide a legal foundation for revisiting and potentially reversing regulations across federal agencies. This could affect entities such as the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), and the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC).
While the legal process for regulatory changes can be time-consuming and extend beyond a single term, a second Trump administration may prioritize appointing judges who align with this judicial approach and aim for long-term regulatory impacts.
Restructuring of Federal Institutions
Discussions surrounding a second Trump term suggest potential restructuring of federal agencies. Speculation has included figures like Elon Musk being considered for roles related to improving government efficiency and Robert F. Kennedy Jr. for public health-related initiatives. However, these remain unconfirmed and largely hypothetical scenarios.
Additionally, Trump has previously proposed removing civil service protections for federal employees, known as “Schedule F,” to streamline workforce management. This proposal faced significant legal and operational hurdles during his first term and will likely encounter similar challenges if reintroduced.
Budget cuts and staff reductions could also be pursued, utilising the congressional budget reconciliation process to expedite changes.
Focus on Economic Growth and Environmental Policy
Trump’s first term brought significant shifts to U.S. environmental policy, often prioritising economic growth and deregulation. Over 100 environmental rules were rolled back, with a focus on reducing regulatory burdens on industries and expanding domestic energy production.
As global climate challenges continue to grow, the U.S. will play a critical role in shaping environmental policies. Policymakers, businesses, and citizens will need to stay engaged in advancing sustainability goals, regardless of the administration in power.
Sources:
What is the Trump administration’s track record on the environment?
12 ways Trump’s environmental policy could impact climate change – The Washington Post
What to expect for environmental policy in a 2nd Trump administration | Trellis
Trump 2.0: This Time the Stakes for Climate Are Even Higher – Yale E360
What does Donald Trump’s victory mean for the climate? – DW – 11/09/2024
