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EPA Considers Loosening Plastic Waste Regulations Amid Criticism

4/2/2026

50 9 Full Breakdown

Summary

Story summary

The EPA is considering reviving a Trump-era proposal to ease Clean Air Act regulations on pyrolysis, which converts plastic waste into feedstocks.
Critics, including former EPA official Judith Enck, warn the move could raise pollution and incentivize single-use plastics.
The American Chemistry Council defends pyrolysis as advanced recycling.
The EPA has scheduled a public hearing for April 6 to discuss the proposal.

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Story summary

The EPA is considering reviving a Trump-era proposal to ease Clean Air Act regulations on pyrolysis, which converts plastic waste into feedstocks.
Critics, including former EPA official Judith Enck, warn the move could raise pollution and incentivize single-use plastics.
The American Chemistry Council defends pyrolysis as advanced recycling.
The EPA has scheduled a public hearing for April 6 to discuss the proposal.