Repealing EPA authority to limit climate pollution puts America’s economy and health at risk

Washington, D.C.— The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s decision to repeal its greenhouse gas Endangerment Finding will disrupt the stable policy environment that businesses depend on to plan and invest in critical strategic industries, Ceres said in a statement today.   

The 2009 Endangerment Finding is the policy foundation that allows the EPA to set federal greenhouse gas standards to address and manage climate change. The policy asserts that greenhouse gas emissions present a public health threat and are therefore subject to regulation under the Clean Air Act. 

“Repealing the Endangerment Finding sets a dangerous precedent for America. This is not something most of industry asked for or wants,” said Anne Kelly, vice president, government affairs, at Ceres. “For nearly two decades, businesses across the U.S. have planned and invested based on the understanding that the EPA can and should set rules to address climate pollution. Ignoring the economic and public health risks of climate pollution puts U.S. leadership at risk, limits future innovation, and threatens both human health and key economic pillars. At a time when the federal government is also stepping away from international efforts to address climate risk, this repeal further increases competitive risks for U.S. companies and undermines the economic interests of all Americans. Investors and companies have made clear that they support this crucial policy foundation. Weakening the EPA’s authority will have serious consequences for our nation and the businesses that power it.” 

Throughout the EPA’s comment period, companies, investors, and trade groups across the economy made the urgent business and economic case against repealing the policy. Public comments opposing repeal came from the Airlines for America, the Zero Emission Transportation Association, and the Business Roundtable, one of the most powerful business groups in the world. The EPA also received letters signed by individual companies and business leaders organized by Ceres and E2.  

The EPA also announced today the repeal of vehicle emissions standards, which were designed to significantly reduce transportation-related pollution and align with the priorities of leading businesses and investors. 

“Repealing the vehicle standards limits the freedom of businesses and consumers to choose the cost‑saving, high‑performing vehicles that best meet their needs. These standards have played a critical role in expanding the variety of models on the market and spurring private investment in domestic clean vehicle manufacturing. America now risks losing those investments—along with the good‑paying jobs they support—and slowing efforts to onshore the supply chains for the critical minerals needed to power a wide range of advanced technologies,” said Kelly.  

About Ceres

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.