Ariana Marmolejo Regional Communications Strategist (West) | Conservation Voters New Mexico
The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has announced its decision to roll back two significant standards concerning power plant pollution. These standards, which apply to existing coal and new gas-fired power plants, regulate emissions of mercury, other toxic air pollutants, and carbon emissions. The proposed changes are expected to be implemented later this year.
Molly Taylor, Chief Operating Officer of the Conservation Voters New Mexico (CVNM), expressed concerns about the impact of these changes. "The changes announced by the EPA are another assault on the health of our communities and our ability to reign in climate pollution that is driving extreme weather events like fires and floods," she said. Taylor highlighted the potential harm to families due to increased exposure to toxins, especially in regions such as the Navajo Nation in New Mexico.
Taylor further criticized the EPA's actions, stating, "Make no mistake: this announcement is about putting the needs of extractive industry and the wealthy elite above the health and welfare of everyday Americans." She also mentioned that earlier this year, the EPA altered its approach by not considering societal costs from disasters potentially worsened by its policies.
The background provided by the Natural Resources Defense Council (NRDC) notes that following a 2007 Supreme Court decision, Massachusetts v. EPA, greenhouse gases were recognized as a danger to human health and welfare. This led to regulations under the Clean Air Act. The carbon standards for power plants were developed during President Biden's administration, aiming for reductions in emissions from coal and natural gas power plants.
According to a 2024 analysis by the EPA, these carbon pollution standards could deliver $390 billion in climate and health benefits while significantly reducing pollution-related health issues such as asthma and heart attacks. An external analysis described these standards as essential for ensuring emission reductions achievable through renewable energy technologies.
The updated Mercury and Air Toxics Standards (MATS) from 2024 built upon earlier successes in reducing hazardous emissions and projected substantial annual health benefits with minimal impact on electricity reliability.
Conservation Voters New Mexico is a nonpartisan organization focused on mobilizing voters and advancing public policies for environmental protection within New Mexico.
