EPA plans to roll back environmental regulations, raising health risks

After President Trump was elected in 2016, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) aimed to reduce environmental regulations. EPA Administrator Scott Pruitt argued that cutting regulations would help U.S. industries. However, a new report suggests these changes could harm public health significantly. Research by health economist David Cutler and others estimates that repealing certain environmental regulations could lead to 36,000 additional deaths over the next decade. This is due to increased exposure to harmful air pollutants like PM2.5. The EPA recently announced it is considering targeting over two dozen existing regulations. These include rules related to climate pollution and air quality. Experts warn that rolling back these regulations could worsen health issues. Air pollution is linked to respiratory illnesses, and with COVID-19's impact, the public may be even more vulnerable. Studies show climate change has intensified wildfires and other extreme weather events, contributing to air pollution. Two regulations of concern are the Clean Air Act (CAA) and carbon pollution standards for fossil fuel power plants. The CAA has been effective in improving air quality and public health since its introduction in 1970. The proposed changes could lead to more pollution and health risks, particularly in southern states where coal power is prevalent. Industries benefiting from these rollbacks could include fossil fuel companies, who may face fewer restrictions and lower operational costs. However, communities that supported Trump could bear the consequences, facing increased health issues from pollution. Experts emphasize the need for decisions based on unbiased data. The health of many people could be at risk if regulations are loosened without considering long-term effects. There is hope that data and new technologies like artificial intelligence may guide better environmental policies in the future.