Story perspectives

EPA Staffing Cuts Threaten Environmental Protections, Critics Warn

10/1/2025

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Center

Zeldin Weakens EPA

The EPA could cut staffing by up to 33% by end of 2025 under Administrator Lee Zeldin.
Enforcement priorities shifted; the EPA no longer factors environmental justice into compliance actions.
Trump administration actions against polluters declined; 14 lawsuits were filed in the first six months.
Critics argue the changes weaken the EPA’s mission to protect health and the environment.

Left

EPA Emission Disclosures Halted

The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) will stop requiring companies to disclose greenhouse gas emissions, altering tracking.
Experts, including former EPA officials, warn non-governmental organizations (NGOs) cannot fully replace the data.
Greenhouse Gas Reporting Program (GHGRP) has been essential for understanding emissions from large sources, such as power plants.
The Trump administration proposed eliminating GHGRP, citing $2.4 billion in regulatory costs.

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Zeldin Weakens EPA

The EPA could cut staffing by up to 33% by end of 2025 under Administrator Lee Zeldin.
Enforcement priorities shifted; the EPA no longer factors environmental justice into compliance actions.
Trump administration actions against polluters declined; 14 lawsuits were filed in the first six months.
Critics argue the changes weaken the EPA’s mission to protect health and the environment.

1 / 2