Impact of Trump's Climate Policy Shift: Six Consequences to Consider

Sun Feb 15 2026 00:53:05 GMT+0200 (Eastern European Standard Time)

Explore the potential ramifications of President Trump's recent change to environmental regulations, including risks to public health, economic shifts, and the broader implications for climate change.

President Trump's reversal of the endangerment finding, a critical environmental regulation from the Obama era, is expected to lead to significant economic and environmental changes. Experts warn of increased greenhouse gas emissions, potential public health risks, and the U.S. falling behind in the global renewable energy race.

Impact of Trump's Climate Policy Shift: Six Consequences to Consider

US President Donald Trump has made the significant move to reverse the endangerment finding—a pivotal Obama-era scientific finding crucial to US environmental legislation. Experts predict a wave of environmental and economic impacts in light of this ruling by the US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), which activists are likely to contest in the courts.

Fewer Greenhouse Gas Emissions Restrictions

The removal of this ruling may notably relax restrictions on greenhouse-gas-producing industries, especially vehicle manufacturers. Since the implementation of the endangerment finding in 2009, greenhouse gas levels in the US have been on a steady decline. Its repeal implies a potential emission increase of 7.5-18 billion tonnes by 2055, leading to substantial economic costs, possibly running into trillions of dollars.

Cheaper Cars in the US (but They'll Be Harder to Export)

Proponents argue that deregulating emissions standards will make cars cheaper, with estimates suggesting a reduction of $2,400 on the cost of vehicles. However, while this may benefit domestic car buyers, manufacturers are caught in a bind, struggling to align with remaining international climate standards.

Nuisance Lawsuits

The absence of the endangerment finding may spark an increase in public nuisance lawsuits, whereby states could challenge corporate polluters in court. This could lead to more legal actions aimed at seeking redress for environmental damage.

Public Health

The EPA claims that greenhouse gas standards are unnecessary for its mission of protecting health. However, reports indicate that increased pollution may lead to significant public health threats, including tens of thousands of premature deaths and millions of asthma attacks by 2055.

Falling Behind in the Global Renewables Race

With the US stepping back from climate standards, questions arise regarding its competitiveness in the global renewable energy market. Former EPA officials have warned that the US could be left behind as countries like China accelerate their investment in clean technology.

Less Industry Regulation

The Trump administration frames this policy change as a significant deregulatory step that could reap up to $1.3 trillion in savings. Nonetheless, time may reveal if this decision resolves or exacerbates the industry's challenges in addressing climate impacts and health concerns.