Summary
- EPA considering waiver to allow California’s combustion vehicle sales ban by 2035
- Biden administration pushing forward clean energy efforts
- Trump administration likely to attempt to block gas car ban
- California’s phase out of gas-powered vehicles not federally approved yet
- Transportation sector accounts for largest share of greenhouse gas emissions in U.S.
Article
The Environmental Protection Agency is considering a waiver for California’s gas car ban
The Environmental Protection Agency is reportedly considering a waiver that would allow California to enforce its ban on combustion vehicle sales by 2035. This decision would be part of the Biden administration’s efforts towards clean energy and combating climate change. While California is the first state to plan on phasing out gas-powered vehicles by 2035, federal approval is still pending. The incoming Trump administration may try to block the gas car ban, but they could face delays and legal challenges in their efforts.
President Biden racing to secure climate legacy
President Biden is racing to secure his climate legacy before leaving office by pushing forward various climate-focused agendas. This includes potentially approving California’s ambitious 2035 gas car ban, which aims to reduce greenhouse gas emissions from the transportation sector, with passenger cars accounting for more than half of these emissions. The harmful byproducts from gas cars, such as nitron dioxide and carbon monoxide, are linked to respiratory illnesses and lung diseases. The public health risks associated with gas car emissions have been well-documented.
Legal obstacles facing the potential gas car ban repeal
President-elect Donald Trump is expected to attempt to revoke California’s gas car ban, but legal obstacles may stand in his way. California has a history of pollution, leading to the EPA granting the state a waiver to set its emissions standards. California is also a leading market for electric vehicles and is recognized worldwide for its efforts to transition away from gas-powered cars. The zero-emissions vehicle standards set by the California Air Resources Board have been adopted by several other states, some of which also plan to eliminate gas car sales in the coming decade.
Biden administration’s last-minute climate moves
The Biden administration is making last-minute moves to solidify its climate plans before the transition of power to the Trump administration. Companies like Rivian, EVgo, and Li-Cycle have received significant loans to advance their efforts in the electric vehicle and clean energy sectors. The Department of Energy approved loans for building a plant, rolling out new chargers, and for battery recycling initiatives. These initiatives reflect the Biden administration’s commitment to combatting climate change and promoting clean energy solutions.
Conclusion
The potential waiver for California’s gas car ban by the EPA, as well as the Biden administration’s climate initiatives, highlight ongoing efforts to address climate change and transition away from fossil fuels towards clean energy alternatives. The transportation sector’s significant role in greenhouse gas emissions underscores the importance of transitioning to electric vehicles to reduce harmful pollutants. Legal challenges may arise in the face of attempts to block California’s gas car ban, but the state’s precedent in setting emission standards and promoting zero-emissions vehicles sets a strong foundation for these efforts. The various loans and initiatives approved by the Biden administration demonstrate a commitment to advancing clean energy technologies and fighting climate change.
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