Eliminating Environmental Justice Office Will Harm American Communities

EDF statement from Dr. Margot Brown

(WASHINGTON, D.C. – February 6, 2025) The Trump administration is moving to shut down the Environmental Protection Agency’s environmental justice office, according to published reports.

“EPA’s environmental justice programs exist so that every American has the opportunity not only to survive, but to thrive. The Trump administration’s plans to dismantle the Office of Environmental Justice and External Civil Rights threatens the rights of millions of Americans to live free from harmful pollution. The end of environmental justice as a presidential priority is in line with this administration’s reckless strategy to tear down our basic health protections and make it easier for polluters to profit. Without this vital program, it will be impossible for EPA to deliver on its mission of clean air and water for everyone, especially those closest to the sources of pollution. 

“We can't backslide on the generational progress made to ensure every American family can be healthy and thrive. It’s essential to continue uplifting frontline communities experiencing the worst impacts of climate change and industrial pollution—and to stand behind them as we work toward a stronger, more resilient future for everyone.”

  • Dr. Margot Brown, Environmental Defense Fund

One of the world’s leading international nonprofit organizations, Environmental Defense Fund (edf.org) creates transformational solutions to the most serious environmental problems. To do so, EDF links science, economics, law, and innovative private-sector partnerships. With more than 3 million members and offices in the United States, China, Mexico, Indonesia and the European Union, EDF’s scientists, economists, attorneys and policy experts are working in 28 countries to turn our solutions into action. Connect with us on Twitter @EnvDefenseFund

Matt Tresaugue

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