Context:
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (USEPA) has rolled back Obama-era climate regulations, including the Endangerment Finding, weakening restrictions on greenhouse gas emissions.
Key Highlights:
Reversal of Climate Regulations
• The Endangerment Finding, which recognized greenhouse gases as a threat to public health, has been rolled back.
• This allows the EPA to remove emission limits on power plants and oil and gas operations.
Policy Changes Under the Trump Administration
• Withdrawal of subsidies for electric vehicles and renewable energy.
• The administration emphasized reducing regulatory pressure on automobile manufacturers.
Scientific and Policy Debate
• A panel of scientists has been formed to challenge prevailing scientific consensus on climate change.
• Critics argue the move undermines evidence-based climate policymaking.
Global Context
• Despite such policy rollbacks, renewable energy deployment globally continues to rise.
• Some developed countries are showing declining political enthusiasm for aggressive net-zero targets.
Significance / Concerns
• Could slow global climate mitigation efforts.
• May weaken international climate cooperation frameworks.
Relevant Prelims Points:
- Greenhouse Gases (GHGs)
- Gases that trap heat in the atmosphere, contributing to global warming.
- Major examples include CO₂, methane, nitrous oxide.
- Endangerment Finding (USA)
- Legal determination that GHGs pose risks to public health and welfare.
- Net-Zero Emissions
- Achieving balance between emissions produced and removed from the atmosphere.
- Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)
- U.S. federal agency responsible for environmental protection and pollution control.
Relevant Mains Points:
Impact on Global Climate Governance
• Policy reversals by major emitters like the United States can affect global climate commitments.
• Weakening domestic regulations may slow progress toward the Paris Agreement goals.
Energy Transition Challenges
• Transition from fossil fuels to renewable energy requires strong policy support.
• Policy uncertainty may discourage investment in clean technologies.
Communication and Policy Acceptance Issues
• Declining enthusiasm for climate targets often stems from misinformation and perceived economic costs.
• Effective communication of economic and social benefits of sustainability is essential.
Way Forward
• Promote science-based climate policy and international cooperation.
• Strengthen renewable energy investments and carbon reduction technologies.
• Encourage global leadership and coordinated climate action.
UPSC Relevance:
• Prelims: GHGs, EPA, net-zero targets.
• Mains (GS III): Global climate governance, environmental policy, sustainable development.