Washington, DC—The Supreme Court agreed today to consider whether
the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency has a duty to regulate global warming
pollution. The decision could affect
emissions from cars and trucks as well as power plants.
“The effects of global
warming are clear and evident, yet we continue to pump unlimited amounts of
global warming pollution into our air. We welcome the Supreme Court’s
decision to consider this case. It’s long past due for EPA to crack down
on global warming pollution,” said Environment Michigan Director Mike Shriberg.
At issue is the US EPA’s
refusal to regulate the gases that cause global climate change under the Clean
Air Act. EPA claims that it lacks that
authority and, regardless of authorization, it prefers not to regulate
greenhouse gas emissions because of scientific “uncertainty”.
“EPA’s
position is untenable
and nonsensical. Clearly, global warming
pollution is a form of pollution that affects public health and
welfare. Clearly, the scientific consensus is in. The only thing
lacking is the political will
to act to stop the greatest threat that our planet faces,” said
Shriberg.
Environment Michigan – through our Washington-based advocacy office (US
PIRG) – is a party in the case, along with a coalition of states and other
environmental and public interest organizations.
