The upcoming election isn’t just about choosing a president; it’s about deciding the future of our planet.. Here are 15 policies that could be drastically impacted, and why you should care.
1. Inflation Reduction Act (IRA)
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The IRA’s funding for renewable energy and emissions reductions could be severely cut back, particularly aspects like subsidies for clean energy which are critical for meeting climate goals.
2. Clean Electricity Performance Program (CEPP)
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This program, aimed at increasing the share of clean electricity, might see reduced support or elimination, slowing down progress towards greener energy.
3. Environmental Justice Grants
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Grants designed to help marginalized communities might be scaled back, reducing support for those most affected by environmental issues.
4. Superfund Excise Tax
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This tax, critical for funding the cleanup of hazardous waste sites, faces threats of being cut, which would slow down or halt many ongoing cleanup efforts.
5. Tax Credits for Renewable Energy
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Incentives for solar panels, heat pumps, and home energy efficiency improvements are at risk, which could decrease consumer adoption of sustainable technologies.
6. Federal Support for Electric Vehicles (EVs)
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Subsidies and tax credits that make EVs more affordable are in jeopardy, potentially slowing the transition to electric transportation.
7. Regulations on Power Sector Emissions
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Standards set to reduce emissions from the power sector might be weakened, increasing pollution and greenhouse gas emissions.
8. Methane Emission Rules
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Regulations controlling methane leaks from oil and gas operations could be rolled back, increasing one of the most potent greenhouse gases in the atmosphere.
9. Clean Water Protections
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Protections for wetlands and streams, crucial for maintaining water quality and ecosystem health, face potential rollbacks.
10. Endangered Species Act
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This act could see changes that make it more difficult to protect wildlife affected by climate change and industrial activities.
11. National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA)
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Efforts to streamline or weaken this policy could lead to less oversight and more environmental degradation from large projects.
12. Public Lands Drilling Bans
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Bans on new oil and gas leasing on public lands are under threat, which could increase fossil fuel extraction and associated emissions.
13. Carbon Pricing
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Initiatives to implement or expand carbon pricing could be stalled or reversed, reducing economic incentives to cut emissions.
14. International Climate Commitments
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U.S. commitments to international climate agreements, including financial contributions and emission reduction targets, might be reduced or withdrawn.
15. Critical Mineral Processing and EV Manufacturing Support
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Support for domestic processing of critical minerals and the manufacturing of batteries for EVs could see cuts, impacting the supply chain and job creation in these sectors.
Facing the Heat
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These policies are more than just political talking points; they are the framework for our climate future. As the election approaches, staying informed and involved is crucial. Remember, the power to protect our planet lies in our hands.
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