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Trump Prepares to Remove Environmental Restrictions.. and Revive Fossil Fuel Industry
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The transition team's proposed plans reflect an economic vision prioritizing traditional industries over environmental considerations
President-elect Donald Trump's transition team has begun preparing a package of executive orders and statements regarding withdrawal from the Paris Climate Agreement, including plans to reduce national preserve areas to make way for exploration and mining operations.
The New York Times revealed Friday expectations that Trump will end the freeze on new natural gas export terminal permits and cancel the exemption granted to California and other states to apply stricter pollution control standards.
The report quoted participants in the deliberations saying some transition team members are discussing a proposal to move the Environmental Protection Agency headquarters outside Washington, D.C.
Caroline Levitt, Trump transition team spokesperson, emphasized in response to Reuters inquiry that "Tuesday's election results gave him a mandate to implement promises made during his campaign. And he will fulfill them."
Notably, President Joe Biden's administration suspended approvals for new liquefied natural gas export projects last January, aiming to complete an environmental and economic impact assessment study of exports.
A U.S. Department of Energy official highlighted the department's plan to issue an updated analytical draft, which will be subject to public comments for two months before year-end.
These trends raise concerns among environmental organizations and climate advocates, who warn of the implications of reduced U.S. environmental commitments on global efforts to combat climate change.
Estimates indicate that anticipated decisions may lead to major expansion in the fossil fuel industry, conflicting with international commitments to reduce greenhouse gas emissions.
Analysts expect these policies to face legal and political opposition from states adopting strict environmental policies, especially amid escalating tensions between the federal government and states regarding environmental and climate issues.
Levant-Agencies
