Ceres urges EPA to maintain the Endangerment Finding to keep American businesses competitive and economy strong

Ceres Senior Director of Federal Policy Zach Friedman testified today in front of the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency in support of preserving the greenhouse gas Endangerment Finding to protect the stable policy environment that businesses need to invest confidently in critical 21^st industries. Rolling it back would not only undermine existing investments but also send shockwaves through the economy and threaten U.S. competitiveness, Friedman emphasized in his testimony.  

“By providing policy certainty, these standards have supported U.S. economic growth, driven private investment, and accelerated clean, cost-effective technologies that strengthen America’s competitiveness amid rapid global change. They also align with the Trump administration’s goals to provide clean air for Americans, increase energy independence, support auto manufacturing jobs, and position the U.S. as a leader in AI,” said Friedman. “Weakening or repealing the Endangerment Finding would expose companies to uncertainty, raise risks, and undermine existing investments.” 

Read Friedman’s full testimony here.  

Established in 2009, the EPA’s Endangerment Finding is the scientific and legal foundation that authorizes and requires the agency to set pollution reduction standards for sources of greenhouse gas emissions that harm public health and welfare. Since then, EPA has set standards for the power, transportation, and oil and gas sectors — driving innovation and keeping America competitive in 21st-century technologies. Businesses have long supported the agency’s ability to set those standards, with leading U.S. companies in recent years signing their names to letters calling for stronger vehicle, oil and gas, and power plant standards.  

In 2009, Ceres submitted public comments on behalf of the companies in its network supporting the Endangerment Finding, noting the risks of greenhouse gas pollution to businesses’ supply chains, workers, consumers, and infrastructure, as well as the competitive advantage of acting quickly to address climate pollution. Businesses are prepared to once again mobilize to push for EPA to uphold the Endangerment Finding.   

Ceres is a nonprofit advocacy organization working to accelerate the transition to a cleaner, more just, and resilient economy. With data-driven research and expert analysis, we inspire investors and companies to act on the world's sustainability challenges and advocate for market and policy solutions. Together, our efforts transform industries, unlock new business opportunities, and foster innovation and job growth – proving that sustainability is the bottom line. For more information, visit ceres.org.