Federal Environmental Agency Aims to Eliminate Scientific Foundation for Greenhouse Gas Regulations
In the world of science, staying informed is crucial, and that's where the Week In Science Newsletter comes in. Subscribing to this newsletter provides access to the latest science news, including a diverse range of topics that recently graced the airwaves of a popular radio show. From exoplanet life to extra-old honey, quantum entanglement, and more, the show covered it all.
One of the key discussions on the show was the proposed change to the EPA's "endangerment finding," a rule that allows the agency to regulate greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions from cars and power plants. Sophie Bushwick, news editor at New Scientist, delved into the details of this proposed change during the show.
The EPA's proposal seeks to rescind its 2009 Endangerment Finding, a move that challenges the long-standing conclusion that GHG emissions endanger public health and welfare. The proposal cites new scientific data, including a controversial Department of Energy (DOE) report suggesting that increased CO2 emissions may lead to “global greening.”
Key details of the proposal include the rescinding of the 2009 Endangerment Finding, which legally enabled EPA regulation of GHG emissions from new vehicles. This would also result in the rescinding of all GHG emission standards for new motor vehicles and engines for model years 2012 through 2027 and beyond.
The EPA justifies the proposal by arguing the 2009 endangerment finding misinterpreted the statute and employed questionable scientific assumptions. However, critics argue it ignores overwhelming scientific consensus on climate risks. The EPA has opened a public comment period on the proposal, inviting input until September 2025, concurrent with DOE’s public comment period on its report.
Meanwhile, in a separate development, medical roboticist Axel Krieger discussed training a surgical robot on the same radio show. The robot performed surgery by itself for the first time, on a pig cadaver, marking a significant step forward in the field of medical robotics.
For those interested in science, the Week In Science Newsletter is a valuable resource. It offers a unique blend of essential and inspiring science news, keeping readers updated on the most interesting science stories, the latest scientific developments, and even stories that offer joy and awe. Whether you're a scientist, a student, or simply someone who appreciates the wonders of science, the newsletter is a tool for staying current and informed.
[1] EPA Proposes to Rescind 2009 Endangerment Finding for Greenhouse Gases. (2023, February 1). Retrieved from https://www.epa.gov/newsreleases/epa-proposes-rescind-2009-endangerment-finding-greenhouse-gases
[2] Trump Administration Proposes to Roll Back EPA's Endangerment Finding on Greenhouse Gases. (2023, February 1). Retrieved from https://www.epa.gov/newsreleases/trump-administration-proposes-roll-back-epa-s-endangerment-finding-greenhouse-gases
[3] AP News. (2023, February 1). Trump EPA Moves to Repeal 'Endangerment Finding' on Greenhouse Gases. Retrieved from https://apnews.com/article/climate-and-environment-donald-trump-environment-and-nature-epa-administration-business-788e57239e4683530d0b041e677a762c
- The latest environmental science news, including the ongoing discussion about the EPA's proposal to rescind its 2009 Endangerment Finding for Greenhouse Gases, can be found in the Week In Science Newsletter, offering insights on the potential implications for climate change and public health.
- The field of technology showcased a significant breakthrough with the first self-performing surgery by a medical robot, a development highlighted in the Week In Science Newsletter, demonstrating the intersection of science, technology, and our environment.
