Donald Trump is gearing up for another presidential run. How will his climate policies shape up? Experts predict a sharp rollback of environmental protections.
Expanding Fossil Fuel Production and Slashing Green Incentives
Trump has long dismissed human-driven climate change. His plan? Boost oil, gas, and coal production while cutting tax incentives for electric vehicles and renewable energy. His administration also aims to repeal environmental regulations and reclaim unspent funds from Biden’s climate initiatives, which he calls a “new green fraud.”
Lee Zeldin at the EPA: A Deregulation Agenda
Trump has nominated former Congressman Lee Zeldin to lead the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). If confirmed, Zeldin will likely undo Biden-era policies on air and water pollution, drilling, biodiversity, and toxic substances.
This move mirrors Trump’s first term, when he weakened or repealed over 100 environmental regulations.
Environmental groups strongly oppose Zeldin’s nomination. Ben Jealous, Sierra Club Executive Director, warns that Trump’s plan would “sell our health, communities, jobs, and future to polluters.” Abigail Dillen, Earthjustice President, argues that the EPA needs an experienced leader, stating, “Lee Zeldin is not that person.”
Fossil Fuel Expansion: Trump’s Energy Strategy
On the campaign trail, Trump vowed to expand fossil fuel production and “restore America’s energy independence.” He promises lower energy costs and fewer regulations for oil and gas companies.
In private meetings, he assured industry leaders that his administration would ease drilling and fracking restrictions.
Chris Wright, CEO of Liberty Energy and a climate change skeptic, is set to lead the Department of Energy. Wright pushes for more coal, oil, and gas while dismissing clean energy alternatives.
Tim Tarpley, President of the Energy Workforce & Technology Council, expects Trump to fast-track fracking projects and expand offshore drilling, particularly in the Gulf of Mexico.
Attacking Clean Energy and EV Incentives
Trump has also targeted clean energy incentives and vehicle emissions rules. Biden’s Inflation Reduction Act (IRA) has created thousands of jobs in the renewable energy and EV sectors, but Trump aims to dismantle it.
However, repealing the IRA could be challenging. The law has bipartisan support due to its job-creation benefits.
A 2024 E2 report reveals that nearly 60% of new clean energy projects since 2022 are in Republican-led districts, including Georgia, North Carolina, and Michigan. These projects could add over $400 billion to the U.S. GDP.
Rachel Cleetus of the Union of Concerned Scientists warns that rolling back the IRA could weaken the U.S. in the global clean energy race, giving China, India, and Brazil a competitive edge.
Project 2025: A Blueprint for Trump’s Second Term
Many of Trump’s proposals align with Project 2025, a conservative strategy developed by the Heritage Foundation. Although he distanced himself from it, several key figures from the project have secured top positions in his administration.
Russ Vought, one of Project 2025’s architects, will likely play a major role in budget decisions. The plan focuses on strengthening executive power and dismantling regulatory agencies.
The Future of U.S. Environmental Policy
Experts warn that Trump’s policies could have long-term consequences. “This administration will be highly destructive,” says Cleetus. “They are anti-science through and through.”
Trump’s industry-friendly nominations and deregulation plans raise concerns about public health, job stability, and the U.S.’s global leadership in clean energy. Although he promises “the highest environmental standards,” critics argue that his policies prioritize corporate profits over sustainability and public well-being.
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