WASHINGTON (August 21, 2018) — The Trump Administration introduced new policies that would undermine the U.S. climate strategy. The Trump proposal is designed to replace the Clean Power Plan, giving far greater latitude and loopholes for how power plants address greenhouse gases and other pollutants. EPA’s Regulatory Impact Analysis shows that the new policy would drive up U.S. emissions compared to the Clean Power Plan, increase costs and health impacts, including as many as 1,400 premature deaths annually.

Following is a statement from Dan Lashof, Director, WRI United States:

“At a time when the U.S. needs to drastically cut carbon pollution, Trump’s dirty power plan only promises higher emissions and costs. These won’t be confined to utility bills as recent record heat waves, wildfires and flooding are demonstrating.

“We’ve seen a surge in climate action across the U.S., with states, cities, and companies ramping up their commitments to clean energy, and markets delivering new jobs and innovation. Yet, the Trump administration is now trying to put its thumb on the scales to prop up older, dirtier energy sources. This is backward thinking that will lead to more pollution, more health problems, higher bills, and less security. Americans deserve better."