News|EnvironmentTrump revokes US scientific finding behind climate change regulationsThe Trump administration has rescinded the ‘endangerment finding’ that serves as the legal basis to curb greenhouse gas emissions.
## Revocation of Endangerment Finding on Greenhouse Gas Emissions
Revocation of Endangerment Finding on Greenhouse Gas Emissions
On Thu, Feb 12, 2026, the United States announced the revocation of a significant scientific finding that has been central to the regulation of greenhouse gas emissions. This decision marks a notable shift in environmental policy under the current administration.
The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has finalized a rule rescinding the 2009 declaration known as the "endangerment finding." This finding served as the legal basis for climate regulations under the Clean Air Act, impacting motor vehicles, power plants, and other pollution sources. Initially established during the Obama administration, it asserted that carbon dioxide and other greenhouse gases pose a threat to public health and welfare.
The repeal of the endangerment finding is expected to nullify existing greenhouse gas emissions standards for cars and trucks and may lead to further deregulation of climate policies affecting power plants and oil and gas facilities.
The new rule could face legal challenges within the US court system. Environmental groups have criticized the action as a significant challenge to federal authority in addressing climate change, highlighting the increased evidence supporting the endangerment finding since its inception.
This decision marks a notable shift in environmental policy under the current administration.
Impact on Emissions Standards and Automotive Industry
Alongside the revocation, the EPA announced the discontinuation of tax credits for automakers that integrate automatic start-stop ignition systems aimed at reducing emissions. This decision may have implications for the automotive industry's approach to emission control technology.
EPA Administrator Lee Zeldin, who was appointed by the current administration, has voiced criticism of previous administrations for what he describes as economically detrimental climate policies.
The endangerment finding enabled a series of regulations designed to mitigate climate change and its associated risks, including natural disasters such as floods, heatwaves, and wildfires. The recent policy shift follows an executive order requesting the EPA to review the legality and relevance of the endangerment finding.
Critics of the revocation, including former EPA officials, argue that the agency has a scientific and legal duty to regulate greenhouse gases. They warn of the escalating environmental and health hazards of climate change.
Based on reporting by Al Jazeera.