1: Taking Action on Climate Change and Improving Air Quality

Reduce greenhouse gas emissions and develop adaptation strategies to address climate change, and protect and improve air quality.

Other Information:

America’s communities face serious health and environmental challenges from air pollution and the growing effects of climate change. During my first year as Administrator, the EPA finalized an endangerment finding on greenhouse gases, proposed the first national rules to reduce greenhouse-gas emissions under the Clean Air Act and initiated a national reporting system for greenhouse-gas emissions. All of these advances signaled historic progress in the fight against climate change. Climate change must be considered and integrated into all aspects of our work. While the EPA stands ready to help Congress craft strong, science-based climate legislation that addresses the spectrum of issues, we will assess and develop regulatory tools as warranted under law using the authority of the Clean Air Act. We have strengthened the ambient air-quality standards for nitrogen dioxide and sulfur dioxide and proposed stronger standards for ozone, which will help millions of Americans breathe easier and lead healthier lives. We also are developing a comprehensive strategy for a cleaner and more efficient power sector, with strong and achievable emission-reduction goals for sulfur dioxide, nitrogen oxide, mercury and other air toxics. Strengthening the ambient air-quality standards consistent with the latest scientific information and gaining additional reductions in air toxics from a range of industrial facilities will significantly improve air quality and reduce risks to communities across the country. Improved monitoring, timely and thorough permitting and vigorous enforcement are our key tools for air-quality improvement.

Objective(s):

1.1: Address Climate Change

1.2: Improve Air Quality

1.3: Restore the Ozone Layer

1.4: Reduce Unnecessary Exposure to Radiation

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