Environmental Protection Network Rebukes EPA's Attempt to Abandon Carbon Pollution Standards

Strategic Insights -

The Environmental Protection Network has issued a stark rebuke of the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency's (EPA) proposed repeal of the Carbon Pollution Standards for fossil fuel-fired power plants. This action, if implemented, would have far-reaching consequences, exacerbating climate destabilization, and causing lasting harm to public health. The network's testimony, led by 37-year EPA veteran Larry Weinstock, emphasized the proposal's scientific and legal shortcomings.

Key Takeaways:

  • The Environmental Protection Network opposes the EPA's proposed repeal of the Carbon Pollution Standards, citing significant harm to public health and the environment.
  • According to EPA's own analysis, repealing the Carbon Pollution Standards could result in up to 1,200 premature deaths, 870 hospital and emergency room visits, 1,900 new cases of asthma, 360,000 asthma symptom incidents, 48,000 missed school days, and 57,000 lost workdays.
  • The Environmental Protection Network's testimony highlighted the scientific and legal failures embedded in the proposal, stating that the agency's main justification is arbitrary and capricious.
  • The network charged the EPA with violating its statutory responsibilities by failing to offer a lawful justification for its decision.
  • The Environmental Protection Network emphasized that U.S. power plants emit more greenhouse gases than all but three countries in the world, and that the agency's proposal is inconsistent with the administration's priorities.

Statistics:

  • Up to 1,200 premature deaths could result from repealing the Carbon Pollution Standards (EPA analysis)
  • 870 hospital and emergency room visits could occur due to repealing the Carbon Pollution Standards (EPA analysis)
  • 1,900 new cases of asthma could arise from repealing the Carbon Pollution Standards (EPA analysis)
  • 360,000 asthma symptom incidents could occur as a result of repealing the Carbon Pollution Standards (EPA analysis)
  • 48,000 missed school days could result from repealing the Carbon Pollution Standards (EPA analysis)
  • 57,000 lost workdays could occur due to repealing the Carbon Pollution Standards (EPA analysis)
  • 650 former EPA career staff and confirmation-level appointees form the Environmental Protection Network (founded in 2017)

Sources:

  • Environmental Protection Network, "Environmental Protection Network Rebukes EPA's Attempt to Abandon Carbon Pollution Standards" (Release), July 9, 2025