To no one’s surprise, on January 20, 2025, only hours into his second term, President Donald Trump signed the following executive orders impacting environmental and energy policies:
1. Declaring a National Energy Emergency
President Trump declared a “national energy emergency” executive order to expedite the development of fossil fuel infrastructure. This executive order aims to:
- Accelerate the construction of oil and gas facilities.
- Lift restrictions on federal leases for onshore and offshore fossil fuel exploration.
The Trump administration asserts that these measures will bolster domestic energy production and reduce energy costs.
2. Withdrawal from the Paris Agreement
Through the “Putting America First In International Environmental Agreements” executive order, President Trump directed the immediate withdrawal of the United States from the Paris Agreement. This action also terminates all U.S. financial commitments under the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change, including the U.S. International Climate Finance Plan. The administration contends that this move will prioritize American economic interests and sovereignty over international climate obligations.
3. Halting Federal Support for Electric Vehicles
As part of the “Unleashing American Energy” executive order, the administration plans to:
- End federal incentives and subsidies for electric vehicles (EVs).
- Eliminate the EV mandate and promote true consumer choice.
This initiative is presented as a measure to ensure a level playing field in the automotive market and to support the oil industry.
These preliminary executive actions signify a substantial shift in U.S. environmental and energy policies, emphasizing fossil fuel development and national autonomy over collaborative international climate efforts. Whether related legislation or regulatory change similarly follows remains to be seen.
