President Donald Trump's administration is taking steps to roll back critical environmental protections, which could lead to a resurgence of car pollution and greenhouse gas emissions.This shift poses considerable health risks to the American public, particularly as climate change continues to escalate.On February 12, 2026, the Trump administration initiated the process to rescind the 2009 endangerment finding, which identified six greenhouse gases, including carbon dioxide and methane, as harmful to public health and welfare.
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livescience.comThis decision undermines decades of progress made under the Clean Air Act, which has successfully reduced pollution levels while supporting economic growth.
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epa.govThe implications of these policy changes are profound.According to health experts, rising global temperatures are linked to an increase in heat-related illnesses, respiratory diseases, and other health complications.
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livescience.comFor instance, extreme heat has been shown to lead to significant health risks, particularly for vulnerable populations such as the elderly or those with pre-existing health conditions.
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livescience.comIn the US, heat-related deaths have surged, with over half a million fatalities attributed to heat exposure in recent years.
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livescience.comMoreover, the rollback of vehicle emissions standards means that cars and trucks will continue to be a major source of air pollution, exacerbating conditions such as asthma, heart attacks, and strokes.
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calmatters.orgtheguardian.comThe rollback comes at a time when air quality is already compromised due to wildfires and other climate-related phenomena, which release harmful particulate matter into the atmosphere.
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livescience.comWildfire smoke, for instance, is laden with toxic particles that can increase the risk of lung cancer and heart disease.
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livescience.comTrump's administration argues that these regulatory changes are necessary to support consumer choice and economic growth.However, critics assert that the long-term health costs associated with increased pollution and greenhouse gas emissions far outweigh any perceived economic benefits.
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calmatters.orgtheguardian.comFor example, the Clean Air Act has been instrumental in reducing the combined emissions of common pollutants by 78% between 1970 and 2020, leading to clearer air and fewer health issues.
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epa.govThe political landscape surrounding these changes is contentious.California, which has long fought for stricter vehicle emissions standards, is poised to challenge the Trump administration's actions in court.Governor Gavin Newsom has vowed to protect the state's environmental regulations, arguing that they are essential for public health and safety.
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calmatters.orgThe recent Senate decision to block California's mandate for electric vehicles marks a significant setback in efforts to reduce pollution and combat climate change.
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calmatters.orgAs the Trump administration continues to roll back environmental protections, the health risks associated with climate change are becoming increasingly apparent.The connection between climate change and health is now well-established, with rising temperatures leading to more frequent and severe heatwaves, extreme weather events, and respiratory illnesses linked to poor air quality.
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livescience.comepa.govThe potential increase in car pollution and greenhouse gas emissions poses a direct threat to public health, particularly for marginalized communities that often bear the brunt of environmental degradation.Lower-income populations are more likely to suffer from chronic health conditions and have fewer resources to adapt to climate-related health risks.
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livescience.comIn light of these developments, health experts and environmental advocates are calling for a renewed commitment to clean air and climate action.They emphasize that by addressing climate change and reducing pollution, we can simultaneously tackle some of the most pressing health challenges facing society today.
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livescience.comepa.govIn conclusion, the Trump administration's policy changes threaten to undermine significant progress made in air quality and public health.As the consequences of climate change continue to unfold, it is crucial for policymakers to prioritize environmental protections that safeguard public health and promote a sustainable future for all Americans.
