Published on: Wed, 18 Feb 2026 17:55:48 GMT
Original Story: Groups sue Trump’s EPA over repeal of rule that supported climate protections – PBS

Trump EPA: Back to Coal, Baby!

Oh, joy. Just when we thought we might, might, be making some baby steps towards not boiling the planet, here comes the Trump administration’s EPA, gleefully dismantling any semblance of climate protections. Because apparently, the only thing standing between us and economic prosperity is…clean air? According to PBS, various groups are suing the EPA over their repeal of a rule that actually, you know, supported climate protections. Color me shocked.

The Rule That Dared to Exist

Let’s rewind a bit. This isn’t some random regulation we’re talking about. This is about the EPA undoing rules designed to limit emissions from power plants. The logic, in its simplistic, almost charmingly naive way, was that maybe, just maybe, if we stopped spewing quite so much pollution into the atmosphere, we wouldn’t all be fighting over dwindling resources in a Mad Max-style wasteland by 2050. But hey, what do scientists know, right?

Why This Matters (Besides the Impending Apocalypse)

For those of you still clinging to the idea that climate change is a hoax perpetrated by Big Renewable Energy (yes, that’s a thing now), let’s break it down. Power plants are a major source of greenhouse gas emissions. Regulations that encourage them to adopt cleaner technologies or transition to renewable energy sources are, therefore, pretty darn important. Repealing those regulations? Well, that’s like removing the brakes from a runaway train hurtling towards a cliff. Except the train is the Earth, and the cliff is… well, you get the picture.

Trump’s History of Climate Contradictions (Surprise!)

Now, here’s where it gets extra delicious. Remember back in 2016, when Trump was campaigning, and he swore he’d bring back coal jobs? He promised to revive the coal industry, painting a rosy picture of miners going back to work and coal-fired power plants humming along, powering the nation. Except, even back then, it was clear that market forces were working against coal. Natural gas was cheaper, renewables were becoming more competitive, and the world was (slowly) waking up to the reality of climate change. But hey, who needs facts when you have a narrative to sell?

He even, at times, muttered something about clean air. During a 2018 interview, he claimed to be “an environmentalist.” An environmentalist who rolls back environmental regulations? That’s some next-level cognitive dissonance right there. It’s like saying you’re a vegan who enjoys a good steak every now and then. The cognitive gymnastics required are truly Olympic-level.

The Lawsuits Are Coming (Again)

Unsurprisingly, environmental groups are fighting back. They’re suing the EPA, arguing that the repeal is illegal and that it ignores the science on climate change. These lawsuits take time, of course. Years, even. Which means the Trump administration has plenty of time to do more damage in the meantime. It’s like a game of whack-a-mole, except instead of moles, it’s environmental regulations, and instead of a mallet, it’s a wrecking ball.

Dismantling Progress, One Regulation at a Time

The assault on environmental protections isn’t limited to power plant emissions, naturally. It’s a full-scale dismantling of pretty much anything that resembles progress. From weakening fuel efficiency standards for cars to opening up public lands for drilling, the Trump administration seems determined to undo decades of environmental policy. Because apparently, clean air and water are just bureaucratic burdens holding back the economy. Never mind the fact that a healthy environment is kind of essential for, you know, life.

The Economic Argument (Or Lack Thereof)

The argument, of course, is that these regulations are bad for the economy. That they stifle innovation, kill jobs, and make America less competitive. Except, there’s little evidence to support that claim. In fact, studies have shown that environmental regulations can actually boost innovation and create jobs in the clean energy sector. But again, who needs facts when you have a talking point?

The Future (Bleak, Probably)

So, what does this all mean? Well, it means that the fight to address climate change is going to be even harder than it already was. It means that we’re going to have to work even harder to hold our elected officials accountable and demand action on climate. And it means that we’re probably going to have to get used to extreme weather events, rising sea levels, and all the other joys of a warming planet. But hey, at least someone will be making a buck, right?

How You Can Help (Besides Hyperventilating)

Okay, deep breaths. We’re not completely doomed yet. There are things you can do. You can vote. You can support environmental organizations. You can reduce your own carbon footprint. You can talk to your friends and family about climate change. And you can, of course, write angry letters to your elected officials. Every little bit helps. Even if it feels like you’re shouting into the void, you’re not alone. There are millions of us out here, just as horrified and frustrated as you are.

Snarky Takeaway

The Trump administration’s EPA is proving, yet again, that environmental protection is about as high on their priority list as, say, reading a book. Their relentless assault on climate regulations is not only short-sighted but also incredibly dangerous. But hey, at least they’re consistent in their inconsistency. Remember when Trump claimed to be an environmentalist? Good times. Now, if you’ll excuse me, I’m going to go buy a gas guzzler and enjoy the planet while it lasts.