Written by Marie Cresswell
Thomas Cole Inc., President

Trump's new executive orders could significantly impact climate action by rolling back environmental regulations and protections established under previous administrations. Key areas affected include:

Deregulation and Emissions Standards

By rolling back regulations like the Clean Power Plan, Trump aimed to give states more control over their energy policies. This could lead to a patchwork of regulations that may result in higher emissions, as states with less stringent rules might not prioritize clean energy.

The rollback of fuel efficiency standards for cars and trucks could result in millions of additional tons of carbon dioxide emissions, undermining efforts to transition to cleaner transportation.

Fossil Fuel Focus

Encouraging the expansion of oil, coal, and natural gas production can lead to increased carbon emissions. This focus could stifle investment in renewable energy sources such as wind and solar, which are crucial for reducing overall greenhouse gas emissions.

Infrastructure projects like pipelines and drilling in previously protected areas could lead to environmental degradation and habitat loss, impacting biodiversity.

Public Lands and Resource Management

Opening public lands for resource extraction can have significant ecological consequences, including deforestation, soil erosion, and water contamination. The loss of natural carbon sinks like forests exacerbates climate change.

The disruption of ecosystems can also threaten wildlife and lead to the loss of biodiversity, which is vital for resilient ecosystems.

International Climate Policy

The withdrawal from the Paris Agreement not only affects U.S. emissions but also sends a signal to other countries about the importance of climate commitments. This could weaken global efforts to address climate change and lead to a lack of accountability among other nations.

U.S. leadership in international climate policy has traditionally encouraged other nations to take action; a retreat could diminish collective efforts and encourage other countries to follow suit. While the China, United States and India produce the most carbon globally Burundi, Eritrea and Malawi produce the lowest carbon footprints in the world. Other notable contributors: Germany, Canada, and Brazil.

Research and Development

Cuts to funding for climate science and research initiatives can stall technological advancements necessary for mitigating climate change. Innovation in clean energy technologies, carbon capture, and storage solutions are critical for future sustainability.

Reduced support for climate adaptation programs can leave vulnerable communities ill-prepared for the impacts of climate change, such as extreme weather events and rising sea levels.

Economic Implications

While deregulation may be seen as beneficial for short-term economic growth, the long-term costs of climate change (including health impacts, disaster recovery, and loss of agricultural productivity) can be far greater.

Transitioning to a green economy offers significant job creation potential in renewable energy sectors, which could be undermined by policies favouring fossil fuels.

In summary, the executive orders could set back progress on climate initiatives significantly, with broad implications for environmental health, public policy, and international cooperation. The challenges posed by climate change require a comprehensive and collaborative global approach, and these actions may hinder collective efforts to build a sustainable future, locally and globally.

So what can Canadians do to counter this inaction by the United States? Educate and advocate by staying informed about environmental issues and advocate for Canadian policies that promote sustainability at local, provincial and national levels.

Vote with your wallet when making decisions; purchase and consume locally sourced goods and services and seasonal foods as well as support sustainable businesses who prioritize sustainability and ethical sourcing and carbon neutrality. Make investments in Socially Responsible Investments (SRI). Reduce energy and carbon in your building by implementing Ventilation Repair Seal Optimization Programs and apply controls to further reduce energy and greenhouse gas. Start with a greenhouse gas roadmap to help you reach your 2030 and 2050 goals. Contact us for more information on how to develop a greenhouse gas roadmap. mcresswell@thomascoleinc.com