The NRDC works to safeguard the earth—its people, its plants and animals, and the natural systems on which all life depends.
- COURT: Trump Administration Illegally Delayed 4 Efficiency StandardsPress ReleaseCOURT: Trump Administration Illegally Delayed 4 Efficiency Standards$8 Billion in Utility Bill Savings Were at Risk SAN FRANCISCO -- A federal appeals court today ruled the U.S. Department of Energy illegally stalled four energy efficiency standards that could save U.S. households and businesses at least $8 billion and avoid 100 million tons of carbon pollution -- the latest in a string of legal defeats for the Trump administration.The ruling today was a victory for the Natural Resources Defense Council, other public interest groups, 11 states, and the City of New York, which argued the now more than 2.5-year delay was…
- Michigan’s Lead Drinking Water Protections Upheld By CourtPress ReleaseMichigan’s Lead Drinking Water Protections Upheld By CourtDETROIT, MI – The effort to squash Michigan’s Lead and Copper Rule, passed to prevent future disasters like Flint’s lead drinking water crisis, was rejected today by the Michigan Court of Claims. The ruling ended all legal claims outlined in the complaint from cities and water utilities aimed to dismantle the nation’s strongest lead standard, which restricts lead in drinking water and requires the removal of lead service lines throughout the state.The Natural Resources Defense Council (NRDC) and The Great Lakes Environmental Law Center (GLELC) filed three amicus briefs in March, June and August 2019, in support…
- EPA Weakens Lead Drinking Water ProtectionsPress ReleaseEPA Weakens Lead Drinking Water Protections ** Media telepresser at 12:00 noon ET **WASHINGTON – The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) today is proposing changes to the Lead and Copper Rule (LCR), a complex, outdated national standard for controlling lead levels in drinking water and the Natural Resources Defense Council (NRDC) is holding a telephone-based press conference at noon ET to comment on EPA’s move. The following is a statement from Erik D. Olson, senior strategic director for health and food at NRDC, based on early press reports:“EPA is rolling back rules meant to protect people from dangerous lead in drinking water. That’s the opposite of…
- California Phasing Out Chlorpyrifos Use by End of 2020Press ReleaseCalifornia Phasing Out Chlorpyrifos Use by End of 2020SACRAMENTO —The California Department of Pesticide Regulation today announced that virtually all use of chlorpyrifos—a pesticide linked to learning disabilities in children—will be phased out in the state by the end of 2020, following years of pressure from public health, farmworker and community groups. Sales will cease in February, but use will be allowed until December 31, 2020.California uses approximately 20% of all chlorpyrifos used in the U.S., and more than any other state.A statement follows from Miriam Rotkin-Ellman, Senior Scientist at the Natural Resources Defense Council (NRDC):“This is a landmark victory for the health…
- NRDC Report Uncovers How the U.S. Plays a Role in the Illegal Shark Fin TradePress ReleaseNRDC Report Uncovers How the U.S. Plays a Role in the Illegal Shark Fin TradeLarge volumes of shark fins transit U.S. borders each year, largely unmonitored and undetectedSAN FRANCISCO – The United States is a major transit hub for the shark fin trade, with fins moving through U.S. ports on their way to Hong Kong and other destinations, according to a report released today by Natural Resources Defense Council (NRDC). Unintentional Partner: How the U.S. Helps the Illegal Shark Fin Market includes new research that finds U.S. agencies have the authority to monitor and inspect shark fin shipments from…
- Alexandra Adams Named NRDC’s Sr. Director of Federal AffairsPress ReleaseAlexandra Adams Named NRDC’s Sr. Director of Federal AffairsWASHINGTON – The Natural Resources Defense Council (NRDC) has named Alexandra Adams Senior Director of Federal Affairs. Adams is the legislative director for NRDC’s Nature program and has worked as the group’s chief legislative advocate for oceans during the Obama and Trump administrations. “Alex will bring enormous skill and experience to our federal affairs team. She’s a seasoned legislative tactician, committed to environmental advocacy, and is ideally positioned to spearhead our team’s work on the Hill.” said John Bowman, Managing Director of Government Affairs. Adams coordinates NRDC’s strategy for preventing legislative threats to lands,…
- 115+ Groups Tell P&G to Stop Turning Canada’s Oldest Trees into Toilet PaperPress Release115+ Groups Tell P&G to Stop Turning Canada’s Oldest Trees into Toilet Paper Facing protests outside its shareholders meeting and petitions from over 200,000 consumers, P&G is urged to stop sourcing from threatened species habitat and increase recycled fibers in tissue products to save forests and the climateCINCINNATI, OH – David Taylor, CEO of Procter & Gamble (P&G) was told the company profited from a “wasteful, globally-harmful” practice—turning trees from the world’s largest, most carbon-rich intact forest into throwaway tissue products—in a letter signed by leaders of more than 115 environmental, conservation, consumer and student groups in the U.S.…
- NRDC: Sec. Perry Said to Be Leaving Trump AdministrationPress ReleaseNRDC: Sec. Perry Said to Be Leaving Trump AdministrationWASHINGTON – Energy Secretary Rick Perry is planning to resign from the Trump administration later this year, according to news reports today. The following is a statement from John Bowman, managing director for government relations at the Natural Resources Defense Council (NRDC):“There’s no dancing around it, Rick Perry tried to prop up the most polluting energy sources and stall important efficiency standards and clean-energy research. Thankfully, most of his worst proposals flopped.“The next secretary of energy must understand everything that the department does. That includes a commitment to cleaning up the radioactive…
- Pennsylvania Moves to Join RGGI in Fight Against Climate ChangePress ReleasePennsylvania Moves to Join RGGI in Fight Against Climate ChangeHARRISBURG, P.A. (October 3, 2019) – Governor Tom Wolf today directed the state Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) to develop a pathway for Pennsylvania to join the Regional Greenhouse Gas Initiative (RGGI) – a multi-state effort designed to cut carbon pollution from power plants across the Northeast and Mid-Atlantic and invest in consumer benefits.A statement follows from Mark Szybist, Senior Attorney at the Natural Resources Defense Council (NRDC): “This is a decisive signal that Pennsylvania is stepping up its climate leadership. As the legislature pushes subsidies for fossil fuels, Governor Wolf…
- NRDC: Senators Must Ask FERC Choice Key QuestionsPress ReleaseNRDC: Senators Must Ask FERC Choice Key Questions WASHINGTON – President Donald Trump said he would nominate James Danly to serve on the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission.The following is a statement from John Moore, director of the Sustainable FERC Project, which is housed at the Natural Resources Defense Council:“FERC is facing crucial decisions as it responds to energy systems rapidly evolving to keep up with the pace of clean-energy deployment and the threat of climate change. We expect James Danly to address these issues when he appears before the Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee.“Danly has said that he wants…
- Governor Newsom Vetoes Trump Defense BillPress ReleaseGovernor Newsom Vetoes Trump Defense BillPopular SB1 bill stopped at the top, California’s environment still at risk from Trump AdministrationSACRAMENTO – California Governor Gavin Newsom vetoed Senate Bill 1 the California Environmental, Public Health, and Workers Defense Act of 2019 today, after the bill passed by wide margins in both the State Senate and Assembly. Following is a statement from Annie Notthoff, Natural Resources Defense Council, Senior Western Advocacy Director: “Governor Newsom’s head-scratching veto of SB 1 is disappointing on many levels. Citing California’s record of ‘deploying all the tools at the state’s disposal,’ Governor Newsom just refused to employ a new potentially powerful tool…
- NRDC, Partners Sue to Block Trump’s Clean Cars RollbackPress ReleaseNRDC, Partners Sue to Block Trump’s Clean Cars RollbackWASHINGTON – The Natural Resources Defense Council and other environmental and health groups today asked the federal district court in Washington to block the Trump administration’s attempt to prevent California and other states from setting vehicle pollution standards. This case contests the Department of Transportation’s faulty argument that pollution standards are preempted by the law setting fuel economy standards. Other cases are set to follow. The following is a comment from David Doniger, a senior attorney at the Natural Resources Defense Council (NRDC): “Congress specifically gave California and other states the authority to fight vehicle pollution, and -- despite…
- NRDC: Trump Administration California Water Letter is GallingPress ReleaseNRDC: Trump Administration California Water Letter is GallingSAN FRANCISCO – The Trump Administration sent a letter to California Governor Gavin Newsom with claims that California is failing to live up to its Clean Water obligations. The letter comes a week after the Trump Administration threatened to withdraw infrastructure money for the state.Following is reaction from Steve Fleischli, senior director of water initiatives at Natural Resources Defense Council:"The Trump Administration has been hellbent on rolling back clean water protections from day one, so it is utterly appalling to see them use the issue to lash out at one of the…
- India’s Ahmedabad Honored for Life-Saving Heat Action and Cool Roofs PlansPress ReleaseIndia’s Ahmedabad Honored for Life-Saving Heat Action and Cool Roofs PlansNEW YORK –The city of Ahmedabad in India won international acclaim this week for developing a widely copied groundbreaking strategy that protects its 5.5 million residents from dangerous heat waves, which are increasing with climate change.Sustainable Energy for All, founded by former U.N. Secretary General Ban Ki-moon, and the London-based charity Ashden honored Ahmedabad’s work and six other initiatives during Climate Week in New York City.After a devastating 2010 heat wave took the lives of 1,344 of its residents, Ahmedabad began crafting a bold heat action plan in collaboration…
- NRDC: New Mexico, Minnesota to Tackle Car PollutionPress ReleaseNRDC: New Mexico, Minnesota to Tackle Car Pollution WASHINGTON – Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz announced today that his state would pursue clean car and zero-emission vehicle standards, joining Gov. Michelle Lujan Grisham of New Mexico who announced a similar step just yesterday.The following is a comment from Luke Tonachel, director for clean cars and fuels at the Natural Resources Defense Council (NRDC):“While the Trump administration is working to stall clean car standards, a growing number of states are stepping up and showing they want to protect their air and curtail the largest source of carbon pollution. Their actions underscore that…
- Court Denies EPA’s Attempt to Dismiss Lawsuit on the Use of Toxic PesticidesPress ReleaseCourt Denies EPA’s Attempt to Dismiss Lawsuit on the Use of Toxic PesticidesFederal Agency Ignored Legal Mandate to Evaluate Impact of Neonics on WildlifeWASHINGTON – A federal court denied the Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) motion to dismiss a lawsuit brought by the Natural Resources Defense Council (NRDC) to force the agency to include Endangered Species Act considerations in the process to approve new neonicotinoid pesticides, which are controversial due to concerns about their impacts on bees and wildlife. Following is a quote from Rebecca Riley, Legal Director for the Nature Program at NRDC."At a moment when birds, bees, and other species…
- Rapid Ocean Decline Calls for Decisive U.S. ActionPress ReleaseRapid Ocean Decline Calls for Decisive U.S. ActionNEW YORK – World leaders gathered in New York City today to respond to the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC), Special Report on the Ocean and Cryosphere in a Changing Climate.The following is a statement from Lisa Speer, director of International Oceans at the Natural Resources Defense Council:“All life on Earth depends on our oceans. There’s no time to dwell on the grim news in this report: the time to act is now. “We need immediate, coordinated action in the U.S. and abroad on three fronts: reducing fossil fuel emissions, fully protecting at least…
- Settlement Requires Feds to Act on Habitat Protections for Endangered Rusty Patched Bumble BeePress ReleaseSettlement Requires Feds to Act on Habitat Protections for Endangered Rusty Patched Bumble BeeWASHINGTON, DC – The Natural Resources Defense Council (NRDC) and US Fish & Wildlife Service (USFWS) settled a lawsuit over the failure to protect habitat necessary for the recovery of the rusty patched bumble bee, as required under the Endangered Species Act. The bee was listed as endangered in 2017. The settlement will require USFWS to propose “critical habitat” by July 31, 2020, unless it makes a finding that habitat protections are not prudent. The Service must then finalize any habitat protections by July 31, 2021.Following is a statement from…
- New Drinking Water Report: Communities of Color More Likely to Suffer Drinking Water Violations For YearsPress ReleaseNew Drinking Water Report: Communities of Color More Likely to Suffer Drinking Water Violations For YearsFlint and Newark put a face on EPA data confirming unequal protection under federal water lawWASHINGTON – Race bears the strongest relationship to slow and ineffective enforcement of the federal drinking water law in communities across the nation, according to a new report released today. Watered Down Justice is a new analysis of EPA data that confirms there is unequal access to safe drinking water, based most strongly on race, a scientific conclusion that mirrors the lived experience of people of color and low-income residents in the United…
- World Leaders Fail to Step Up Climate ActionPress ReleaseWorld Leaders Fail to Step Up Climate Action WASHINGTON – World leaders met today at the United Nations in New York City for the 2019 Climate Action Summit, convened to encourage countries to make stronger commitments soon that address the growing costs and widening damages from climate change.The following is a statement by Jake Schmidt, managing director of the International Program at the Natural Resources Defense Council:“With climate damages and global temperatures escalating, world leaders failed to show that they fully understand the crisis and that they stand with young people around the world calling for stronger climate action right now.…
- NRDC Map and Report Reveal Rise in Harmful Algal BloomsPress ReleaseNRDC Map and Report Reveal Rise in Harmful Algal BloomsOutbreaks in every state; Industrial Agriculture is helping to fuel the problemWASHINGTON – As harmful algal blooms (HABs) proliferate in the United States, two new releases from the Natural Resources Defense Council (NRDC) illuminate the scale of the problem nationally and detail a major pollution source helping to fuel it. A new interactive map released today reveals how freshwater bodies throughout the country have been impacted by the explosive growth of algae which can create dead zones that squeeze life out of the rivers, lakes and other waterways. Additionally, a new report dives deep…
- Chicago Residents Hardest Hit by Pollution Call on City to Act Following AuditPress ReleaseChicago Residents Hardest Hit by Pollution Call on City to Act Following Audit CHICAGO – Environmental advocates are renewing calls for City government to address the disproportionate pollution burden for Chicago’s communities of color following a new audit from City’s Office of Inspector General. The report shows significant gaps in the City’s enforcement of air quality standards and highlights the Department of Public Health’s (CDPH) insufficient staffing and lack of written guidance on how to prioritize the highest-risk facilities for inspection. The report shows that the largest air pollution emitters are located on the City’s South and West Sides – a disparity called out…
- Trump Moves to Halt States’ Ability to Curb PollutionPress ReleaseTrump Moves to Halt States’ Ability to Curb Pollution WASHINGTON – President Donald Trump said today his administration will move to prevent states from issuing vehicle standards that protect their citizens from harmful pollution, including the carbon dioxide causing climate change. Congress gave California the authority to set these standards as part of the Clean Air Act, and it allowed other states to join California. Nothing in the fuel economy law takes away that authority.The following is a comment from Luke Tonachel, director for clean vehicles and fuels at the Natural Resources Defense Council (NRDC):“State leaders need the ability to…
- Pioneering Study Tallies Huge Hidden Health Costs from Climate ChangePress ReleasePioneering Study Tallies Huge Hidden Health Costs from Climate ChangeResearch sheds light on public health impact from climate-related events, spotlight on CO, FL, MI, NV, NJ, NY, NC, OH, TX, WA, and WI WASHINGTON – Climate change is taking a huge toll on Americans’ health, so much so that it could constitute a public health crisis, a new study by the Natural Resources Defense Council and the University of California, San Francisco, suggests.The study, published in the journal GeoHealth, finds that Americans endured more than $10 billion in health costs from 10 climate-sensitive events in 2012. That stunning toll…
- Congressional Leaders Introduce Bill to Rescind Regulations That Weaken Endangered Species ActPress ReleaseCongressional Leaders Introduce Bill to Rescind Regulations That Weaken Endangered Species ActWASHINGTON, DC – Leaders in the House and Senate today introduced legislation that would rescind the Trump administration’s regulations gutting the Endangered Species Act. Led by Representatives Raul Grijalva (D-AZ), Don Beyer (D-VA), and Debbie Dingell (D-MI) and by Senator Udall, the Protect America’s Wildlife and Fish in Need of Protection Act (PAW and FIN Act) comes after resounding public outcry over the weakening of the law, as the planet faces an unprecedented extinction crisis.Following is a statement from Nora Apter, Deputy Director of Federal Affairs at the Natural Resources Defense Council.“This…
- The Home Depot to End Sales of PFAS-laden Carpet This Year: NRDC ReactionPress ReleaseThe Home Depot to End Sales of PFAS-laden Carpet This Year: NRDC ReactionWASHINGTON – The Home Depot has agreed to stop purchasing carpet that contains PFAS in U.S. and Canada by the end of this year. Scientists have long acknowledged a host of health harms associated with the class of “forever chemicals.” The move, the first of its kind by a major retailer, would close a significant source of exposure to the chemical present in homes throughout America. The following is a comment from NRDC’s Director of Health Campaigns Sujatha Bergen:“Home Depot is sending a message to the entire home goods…
- $8.6 Million for Peoria-Area Projects and Edwards Coal Plant 2022 Retirement Announced in Proposed SettlementPress Release$8.6 Million for Peoria-Area Projects and Edwards Coal Plant 2022 Retirement Announced in Proposed SettlementILLINOIS - A proposed settlement for the closure of the Edwards coal plant outside of Peoria, Illinois by the end of 2022 was announced today by environmental and health organizations and the plant’s owner. The Natural Resources Defense Council, Sierra Club, Respiratory Health Association and the plant’s operator, Illinois Power Resources Generating, are seeking approval of the proposed settlement of a Clean Air Act lawsuit brought by environmental and health groups in 2013.If approved and entered by the Court, the proposed settlement would also provide…
- Trump Administration Moves to Open Arctic RefugePress ReleaseTrump Administration Moves to Open Arctic RefugeWASHINGTON – The Bureau of Land Management today took a key step to open the Arctic Refuge to polluters, releasing its final environmental impact statement for oil and gas leasing. The move, which comes the very day lawmakers voted to permanently protect the Refuge, is a key step in opening the area to polluters—and could pave the way for companies to begin the process of drilling there within a matter of months. After decades of protection, the Arctic Refuge will be subject to oil and gas leasing as a result of a provision mandating it,…
- U.S. House Passes Legislation to Protect Arctic Refuge in Historic VotePress ReleaseU.S. House Passes Legislation to Protect Arctic Refuge in Historic VoteThe Arctic Cultural and Coastal Plain Protection Act reinstates key safeguards that the 2017 tax bill stripped from the Arctic National Wildlife RefugeWashington — Today in a historic vote, the U.S. House of Representatives passed (225-193) the Arctic Cultural and Coastal Plain Protection Act, bipartisan legislation that would halt the Trump administration in its efforts to pursue oil drilling in the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge. Reps. Jared Huffman (D-CA) and Brian Fitzpatrick (R-PA) introduced the measure, which is the first stand-alone bill the House of Representatives has passed to protect the…
- Report: FEMA Post-Flood Home Buyouts Take 5+ Years To Complete After Waters RecedePress ReleaseReport: FEMA Post-Flood Home Buyouts Take 5+ Years To Complete After Waters RecedeSlow-moving buyout programs trap people seeking to move to higher groundCHICAGO – In the aftermath of Hurricane Dorian churning up the eastern seaboard, leaving destructive flood waters in its wake, a new national report describes FEMA policies creating a nightmare for disaster survivors deciding what to do with destroyed or damaged homes. For those who want to move out of a flood zone, the wait time for a home buyout can stretch five years or more, according to a first-ever analysis of nearly 30 years of data…
- Senate leaders introduce Arctic Refuge Protection BillPress ReleaseSenate leaders introduce Arctic Refuge Protection BillU.S. Senators take important step toward protecting the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge.Washington, DC - Leaders in the U.S. Senate just introduced the Arctic Refuge Protection Act to designate the coastal plain of the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge a wilderness area and protect its sensitive coastal plain from oil and gas leasing and development. The bill is co-sponsored by Sen. Ed Markey (MA); Sen. Michael Bennet (CO); Sen. Maria Cantwell (WA); Sen. Tom Carper (DE); Sen. Charles Schumer (NY); and Sen. Tom Udall (NM).The coastal plain of the Arctic Refuge was recommended for wilderness status under its…
- NRDC: Trump Moves to Deny Americans Clean WaterPress ReleaseNRDC: Trump Moves to Deny Americans Clean WaterWASHINGTON – The Trump administration is expected today to eliminate critical protections for streams, wetlands and other water bodies at risk from pollution by repealing the Clean Water Rule.The final rule issued by the Environmental Protection Agency and the Army Corps of Engineers would repeal a commonsense regulation -- developed after years of scientific study -- that ensures the 47-year-old Clean Water Act would apply to waterways and wetlands that are important to the health of larger rivers, lakes and estuaries.The following is a comment from Jon Devine, director of federal water policy at the Natural Resources Defense…
- N.C. House Majority Overrides Governor Cooper’s Budget VetoPress ReleaseN.C. House Majority Overrides Governor Cooper’s Budget Veto RALEIGH, N.C. – After explicitly proclaiming there would be no votes this week – and with only half of the General Assembly present – the North Carolina House majority voted to override Governor Roy Cooper’s budget veto today. Under the majority-backed budget, approved in June, minimal new requirements for industrial hog farms meant to protect water quality and provide the public with information about whether hog waste lagoons are leaking would be delayed an entire year. Instead of taking effect this fall as intended, the safeguards would be delayed until October 1, 2020.A…
- Senate Leaders Introduce Bipartisan Bill to Save the North Atlantic Right WhalePress ReleaseSenate Leaders Introduce Bipartisan Bill to Save the North Atlantic Right WhaleAfter a deadly summer for North Atlantic right whales, Senators Booker (D-NJ), Isakson (R-GA) and Carper (D-DE) lead bipartisan bill to support their recovery(Washington) - Senators Cory Booker, D-N.J., Johnny Isakson, R-Ga., and Tom Carper, D-De., today introduced a bipartisan bill, the Scientific Assistance for Very Endangered (SAVE) Right Whales Act (S. 2453), to support the recovery of the North Atlantic right whale, a highly endangered species.The bill comes at a pivotal point in the fight to save the North Atlantic right whale from extinction; 2 percent of…
- Trump Administration Guts Collection of Data on Toxic ChemicalsPress ReleaseTrump Administration Guts Collection of Data on Toxic ChemicalsWASHINGTON – Environmental Protection Agency Administrator Andrew Wheeler today announced an irresponsible plan to scale back the use of animal testing for laboratory studies on chemicals. Animal tests help scientists discover life-saving treatments and can also help identify chemicals that harm people and the environment. They provide critical information about how chemicals work in complex biological systems like humans.The EPA is announcing it will instead use alternative testing methods based on computer models, cells, and proteins. These methods can be useful but may not be sufficient for testing all chemicals.The following is…
- GE’s Climate Hypocrisy: Building Coal Plants While Touting Clean EnergyPress ReleaseGE’s Climate Hypocrisy: Building Coal Plants While Touting Clean Energy WASHINGTON — General Electric, which boasts of being a clean energy leader, is quietly doubling down on the dirty energy of the past with plans to equip more than a dozen new coal-fired power plants in countries like Cambodia, Kenya, Poland, Pakistan and Vietnam, a report released today by the Natural Resources Defense Council shows.These coal power plants would sharply increase carbon pollution, harming public health and leading to hundreds of premature deaths annually from the projects—if completed. The plants also could destabilize economies and would add billions of…
- Congress Must Vote to Protect America's Coasts, Oceans, and Marine Life from Offshore DrillingPress ReleaseCongress Must Vote to Protect America's Coasts, Oceans, and Marine Life from Offshore DrillingHouse of Representatives to vote on two landmark bipartisan bills to ban drilling off Atlantic, Pacific coasts and Eastern GulfWASHINGTON, D.C. — The House of Representatives is expected to vote this week on two bills that would permanently protect coastal communities across America from the dangers of reckless offshore oil and gas drilling and costly oil spills.H.R. 205, sponsored by Rep. Francis Rooney (R-FL), would permanently ban oil and gas drilling off Florida’s Gulf Coast, while H.R. 1941, sponsored by Rep. Joe Cunningham (D-SC), would block drilling off…
- NRDC: Trump Bullies Automakers Over Pollution PledgePress ReleaseNRDC: Trump Bullies Automakers Over Pollution Pledge WASHINGTON — The Trump administration attacked automakers that pledged to produce vehicles with lower tailpipe emissions.The following is a statement from Luke Tonachel, director of clean vehicles and fuels at the Natural Resources Defense Council (NRDC):“The Trump administration is trying to bully automakers into accepting a regulatory rollback the companies don’t want." “It’s bizarre—but not surprising—that this Environmental Protection Agency is attacking companies that want to cut pollution. The administration should give up its costly attacks on our nation’s safeguards and support standards that cut toxic pollution, lower costs for drivers and address our…
- NRDC Partners with Garage Museum of Contemporary Art to Showcase The Coming World: Ecology as the New Politics 2030–2100 at EXPO CHICAGOPress ReleaseNRDC Partners with Garage Museum of Contemporary Art to Showcase The Coming World: Ecology as the New Politics 2030–2100 at EXPO CHICAGOCHICAGO, IL—The Natural Resources Defense Council (NRDC) and Garage Museum of Contemporary Art will present selections from The Coming World: Ecology as the New Politics 2030–2100 at EXPO CHICAGO, the International Exposition of Contemporary & Modern Art, taking place at Navy Pier’s Festival Hall from September 19–22. This partnership will mark the first time the renowned Russian museum exhibits in the United States and will feature works by four internationally acclaimed artists: Kim Abeles, Dan Perjovschi, Alexander Obrazumov,…
- DOE Rollback of Energy-Saving Light Bulb Standards is Senseless and IllegalPress ReleaseDOE Rollback of Energy-Saving Light Bulb Standards is Senseless and IllegalWASHINGTON, DC – The Department of Energy moved today to block energy-saving standards scheduled to go into effect Jan. 1 for nearly all of America’s light bulbs, defying a 2007 law in separate actions that will increase consumers’ utility bills and worsen the carbon pollution driving climate change.The DOE issued a final rule that will allow the continued sales of four classes of highly wasteful incandescent and halogen bulbs: three-way, candle-shaped used in chandeliers and sconces, reflector bulbs used in recessed cans and track lighting, and the round globe…
- Trump EPA Expected to Release New, Far-Reaching Rollback of Methane Pollution ProtectionsPress ReleaseTrump EPA Expected to Release New, Far-Reaching Rollback of Methane Pollution ProtectionsWASHINGTON — The Trump administration today is expected to announce its latest attempt to roll back commonsense curbs on leakage of methane, a powerful climate-changing air pollutant, from the oil and gas industry. The proposal is expected to repeal 2016 standards limiting methane emissions from new oil and gas equipment nationwide and exempt existing operations, which are responsible for more than 85% of the industry’s emissions, from any controls at all.A statement follows from David Doniger, Senior Strategic Director of Climate & Clean Energy at the Natural Resources…
- Trump Disparages Clean Energy, Touts Climate-Busting PolicyPress ReleaseTrump Disparages Clean Energy, Touts Climate-Busting Policy WASHINGTON – In response to a reporter’s question about climate change at the G-7 meeting today, President Trump touted his administration’s efforts to develop fossil fuels and disparaged the fast-growing wind industry.The following is a statement from David Doniger, senior strategic director in the Climate & Clean Energy program at the Natural Resources Defense Council:“Asked about the climate crisis, President Trump boasted about his administration’s drive to dig up and burn dirty fossil fuels—which only makes the crisis all that much worse. Trump’s comments also belittled the booming low-carbon economy in the…
- Pledge to “Wipe Right” on National Toilet Paper DayPress ReleasePledge to “Wipe Right” on National Toilet Paper DayUse Recycled Toilet Paper, Save TreesWASHINGTON – The Natural Resources Defense Council (NRDC) is urging American consumers to mark National Toilet Paper Day by pledging to use recycled toilet paper—or “wipe right”—to save more than one million trees from the tree-to-toilet pipeline.“The tragic Amazon fires burning right now show how fragile the world’s forests really are,” said Shelley Vinyard, Boreal Corporate Campaign Manager at NRDC. “If every American switched one roll of toilet paper made from trees to a roll made from 100% recycled materials, we could save over 1 million…
- NRDC: Trump’s Plans Endanger Grand Staircase MonumentPress ReleaseNRDC: Trump’s Plans Endanger Grand Staircase MonumentWASHINGTON (Aug. 23, 2019) – The Bureau of Land Management released management plans for its gutted version of the Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument.The following is a comment from Sharon Buccino, director of lands for the Natural Resources Defense Council (NRDC):“The paleontological wonders and other natural treasures of the Grand Staircase-Escalante monument need and deserve our protection from drilling, mining and senseless road construction. We will continue fighting the illegal attempt by the Trump administration to gut protections for this sacred land.“The management plans issued today are a waste of time and money; the administration…
- Trump’s EPA Ignores Threat of Hazardous SpillsPress ReleaseTrump’s EPA Ignores Threat of Hazardous SpillsWASHINGTON – The Environmental Protection Agency made clear today that it will continue ignoring its responsibility to curtail chemical spills from industrial facilities, a decision that is in blatant disregard of the Clean Water Act and a settlement the agency agreed to in court. The following is a comment from Michele Roberts, National Co-Coordinator at the Environmental Justice Health Alliance (EJHA):“For many decades now, black, brown and poor communities, who often suffer first and worst from toxic chemical spills, have been abandoned by federal regulators. While we continue to deal with toxic floodwaters and…
- Community and Environmental Organizations Push Michigan Public Service Commission to Reject DTE’s Long-Term Energy PlanPress ReleaseCommunity and Environmental Organizations Push Michigan Public Service Commission to Reject DTE’s Long-Term Energy PlanLANSING, MI – Environmental and community organizations today are calling for Michigan’s Public Service Commission to reject the proposed long-term energy plan from DTE following testimony from experts revealing how DTE’s plan will hold back a transition to cleaner, more affordable energy. Experts ranging from energy economists, renewable experts, and health professionals submitted testimony detailing significant flaws in DTE’s proposal. Advocates argue that the plan would unnecessarily increase costs, rely too heavily on fossil fuels that should be retired much earlier, increase racial and economic inequity, and…
- New NRDC Tool Calculates Cost of Electricity by Resource UsedPress ReleaseNew NRDC Tool Calculates Cost of Electricity by Resource UsedWASHINGTON – Ever wondered whether there is a cheaper and cleaner resource that your utility could use to generate the electricity keeping our homes and businesses running? The Natural Resources Defense Council (NRDC) today launched a tool that can help utilities, institutions, state and local policymakers, and the public get better answers about the changing economics of today’s power sector.The NRDC tool improves upon existing methods to compare – on an apples-to-apples basis – the cost of producing power from different technologies in each state and region of the country.…
- World Wildlife Conference: Parties Vote to Help End Giraffes’ Silent ExtinctionPress ReleaseWorld Wildlife Conference: Parties Vote to Help End Giraffes’ Silent ExtinctionGlobal Community Votes to Protect Giraffes Under CITESGENEVA – Today, at the 18th Meeting of the Conference of the Parties to the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES CoP18), also known as the World Wildlife Conference, countries from around the world agreed to restrict the international trade in giraffe parts in an effort to help save the species from extinction.Following is a statement from Elly Pepper, Deputy Director of International Wildlife Conservation at the Natural Resources Defense Council.“By placing strict trade limits…
- Lawsuit Challenges Trump Administration Attack on Endangered Species ActPress ReleaseLawsuit Challenges Trump Administration Attack on Endangered Species ActEnvironmental Groups Head to Court Over Trump-Bernhardt’s Extinction PlanWASHINGTON, D.C. – Environmental and animal protection groups today sued the Trump administration over its new regulations that dramatically weaken the Endangered Species Act (ESA). Earthjustice filed the lawsuit on behalf of Center for Biological Diversity, Defenders of Wildlife, Sierra Club, Natural Resources Defense Council, National Parks Conservation Association, WildEarth Guardians, and the Humane Society of the United States. Today's lawsuit makes three claims against the Trump administration's new rules:The Trump administration failed to publicly disclose and analyze the harms and impacts of these…
- NRDC Statement at the Conclusion of the Newark Drinking Water Hearing in Federal CourtPress ReleaseNRDC Statement at the Conclusion of the Newark Drinking Water Hearing in Federal CourtNewark, N.J. – Arguments in a federal lawsuit seeking bottled water for some Newark residents, due to health concerns about high levels of lead in the city’s drinking water, concluded today without a decision from the judge. The case was brought by the Newark Education Workers (NEW) Caucus—a group of public school educators—and the Natural Resources Defense Council (NRDC).At issue in this week’s hearing was a limited request for a court order that Newark supply bottled water to pregnant women and families with kids aged 6 and…
- Gov. Pritzker Eliminates Barrier to Illinois Climate ActionPress ReleaseGov. Pritzker Eliminates Barrier to Illinois Climate ActionILLINOIS - Gov. Pritzker signed a bill late last evening that would undo restrictions limiting the state’s climate action. The Illinois Kyoto Protocol Act of 1998 defined the state’s response to the international treaty of the same name, which outlined greenhouse gas emissions standards for countries across the globe. Once the U.S. withdrew from the treaty, Illinois was locked in to standards that did not correspond to any national benchmarks. Advocates hope that the repeal of the state’s Kyoto Protocol Act will lead to new aggressive carbon reduction policies in Illinois.The following is a statement…
- NRDC, Others Sue to Overturn Trump’s Do-nothing Climate PlanPress ReleaseNRDC, Others Sue to Overturn Trump’s Do-nothing Climate PlanWASHINGTON – The Natural Resources Defense Council today joined major public interest groups urging the U.S. Court of Appeals for the D.C. Circuit to overturn the Trump administration’s plan claiming to address climate change. The Environmental Protection Agency recently finalized a plan that would fail to avoid a climate catastrophe. The following is a statement from David Doniger, senior strategic director in NRDC’s Climate & Clean Energy program: “With climate change impacts rising, and clean energy costs falling, EPA should be strengthening the Clean Power Plan, not scrapping it for a do-nothing dirty…
- CITES’s Last Chance to Save the VaquitaPress Release CITES’s Last Chance to Save the VaquitaFate of the world’s most endangered cetacean to be decided in GenevaLONDON — As governments from around the world prepare to meet in Geneva for the 18th Conference of the Parties to the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species (CITES), a new report urges the imposition of trade suspensions against Mexico for its failure to protect the critically endangered vaquita from illegal fishing and trade in the totoaba, a large fish found in Mexico’s Gulf of California.The vaquita, the world’s smallest and most endangered cetacean, is found only in Mexico’s northern Gulf of California.…
- Trump Administration Exacerbates Extinction CrisisPress ReleaseTrump Administration Exacerbates Extinction CrisisFederal government torpedoes Endangered Species Act against popular public opinionWASHINGTON – The United States Department of the Interior and the Department of Commerce approved new regulations that weaken the Endangered Species Act today. Following is a statement from Rebecca Riley, Legal Director for the Nature Program at the Natural Resources Defense Council (NRDC).“Over the objections of nearly everyone, the Trump Administration has eviscerated one of our nation’s foundational environmental laws. Poll after poll shows Americans support the Endangered Species Act as a lifeline to the wildlife it protects. The Administration ignored the hundreds of thousands of objections from scientists,…
- Smart Speakers & Video Streaming Devices are EfficientPress ReleaseSmart Speakers & Video Streaming Devices are Efficient But TV Energy Use Can Double Waiting for Voice Commands SAN FRANCISCO, CA – Most of the more than 100 million smart speakers and video streaming devices installed in America’s homes are quite energy efficient, the Natural Resources Defense Council (NRDC) said today in the first independent report on their electricity use. However, energy consumption could more than double for televisions awakened and controlled by voice commands if simple TV design improvements are not made, adding up to $2.5 billion to U.S. energy bills every year.The NRDC report, “Energy Impacts of…
- EPA Moves to Block States, Tribes from Protecting WaterwaysPress ReleaseEPA Moves to Block States, Tribes from Protecting WaterwaysWASHINGTON - The Environmental Protection Agency issued a proposed rule today to strip a powerful tool under the Clean Water Act states and tribes have used to prevent federally permitted projects from harming their waterways.The following is a statement by Jon Devine, director, federal water policy in the Nature Program at the Natural Resources Defense Council:“This proposal would leave states and tribes at the mercy of project developers and federal agencies that couldn't care less about protecting water resources, or lack the expertise to do so. It's also another example of the Trump…
- NRDC: Protecting Lands is Urgent Step in Climate ActionPress ReleaseNRDC: Protecting Lands is Urgent Step in Climate ActionWASHINGTON – A Special Report on Lands and Climate Change released today by the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) underscores both the fierce urgency to take action and the opportunities ahead when it comes to land-use decisions.The following is a statement from Susan Casey-Lefkowitz, Chief Program Officer for the Natural Resources Defense Council:“This new report makes clear that our Earth’s natural systems are key, along with getting off fossil fuels, to reducing dangerous climate pollution. We must move quickly to transform the way we produce and consume food and to protect and restore…
- NRDC Sues EPA Over Latest Refusal to Ban Pesticide Toxic to Kids’ BrainsPress ReleaseNRDC Sues EPA Over Latest Refusal to Ban Pesticide Toxic to Kids’ BrainsWASHINGTON—The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency must ban chlorpyrifos—a pesticide linked to learning disabilities in children—from food in the U.S., according to litigation filed today in the 9th Circuit Court of Appeals by Earthjustice on behalf of the Natural Resources Defense Council (NRDC) and a coalition of labor and health organizations. It is the second lawsuit the groups have filed against EPA over the chemical since the Trump administration refused to take action in 2017.“We will not stand by while the Trump administration fights to keep this poison…
- Trump Administration Abandons Habitat Protections for Iconic Western BirdPress ReleaseTrump Administration Abandons Habitat Protections for Iconic Western BirdWASHINGTON – The U.S. Forest Service today finalized its plan for managing the greater sage-grouse, along with hundreds of other species, on 5.2 million acres of Western lands. The move unravels an existing conservation plan to preserve fragile habitat for this iconic bird. That plan, issued in 2015, was painstakingly crafted over several years with input from a wide range of stakeholders.The following is a statement from Bobby McEnaney, director of the Dirty Energy Project for the Natural Resources Defense Council:“From our wildlands to our precious habitat and threatened iconic species, nature…
- New Bill Would Standardize Food Date Labels Nationwide to Reduce WastePress ReleaseNew Bill Would Standardize Food Date Labels Nationwide to Reduce WasteWASHINGTON – Rep. Chellie Pingree (D-Maine) and Rep. Dan Newhouse (R-Wash.) today introduced the Food Date Labeling Act (H.R. 3981), a bill to standardize date labels on food in order to help avoid unnecessary waste caused by consumer confusion. A companion bill has been introduced by Sen. Richard Blumenthal (D-Conn.).A statement follows from Elizabeth Balkan, Food Waste Director at the Natural Resources Defense Council (NRDC):“Tons of perfectly good food and money is trashed every day because of confusing date labels. That adds up to a staggering amount of climate pollution, wasted water and missed opportunities to…
- Trump Administration Reneges on Protections for Alaska’s Salmon FisheryPress ReleaseTrump Administration Reneges on Protections for Alaska’s Salmon FisheryWASHINGTON (July 30, 2019) – The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) today withdrew protections for Bristol Bay, Alaska from the Pebble Mine – a colossal, widely condemned gold and copper mine that poses a threat to the area’s famous salmon runs. The agency’s action signals that it intends to clear the way for the Army Corps of Engineers to issue a permit for the controversial mine. The following is a statement from Joel Reynolds, a senior attorney with the Nature Program at the Natural Resources Defense Council: “This outrageous move is the Trump Administration’s gift…
- Taco Bell Announces Plans for Beef Antibiotic Use ReductionsPress ReleaseTaco Bell Announces Plans for Beef Antibiotic Use ReductionsMove Indicates Increasing Pressure for Fast Food Companies to Act IRVINE – Taco Bell today announced a new policy limiting antibiotic use in its beef supplies—committing to a 25% reduction in all medically important drugs, but allowing for a lengthy six-year implementation timeline, omitting details about how reductions will be measured, and failing to include verification from an independent third party.The news comes while the Natural Resources Defense Council (NRDC) and partner groups are turning up the heat on another fast food giant—Wendy’s—to improve its antibiotics policies for beef. This indicates…
- NRDC: Transportation Bill Includes Necessary Climate InvestmentsPress ReleaseNRDC: Transportation Bill Includes Necessary Climate InvestmentsWASHINGTON - The leaders of the Senate Environment and Public Works Committee introduced America’s Transportation Infrastructure Act today, which includes funding to make roads, bridges and other infrastructure more resilient to extreme weather events and to spur reductions in highway-related carbon emissions. The committee is scheduled to consider the legislation tomorrow. The following is comment from Susan Casey-Lefkowitz, chief program officer at the Natural Resources Defense Council (NRDC):“Transportation is now the largest source of carbon pollution, and it’s encouraging that there’s bipartisan agreement to pursue pro-climate policies -- like investing in electric-vehicle charging stations and making…
- New Report: Climate Change Will Exacerbate Chile’s Water Management Challenges in the Metropolitan RegionPress ReleaseNew Report: Climate Change Will Exacerbate Chile’s Water Management Challenges in the Metropolitan RegionThe Report Outlines Solutions to Help Chile Achieve Sustainable Development Goals and Climate Change Adaptation TargetsSantiago, Chile — According to a new report, Chile’s Metropolitan Region—home to 7 million people—faces a growing water deficit that will worsen due to climate change. The new report released today by the Natural Resources Defense Council (NRDC) and Adapt Chile examines six key water management challenges facing the Metropolitan Region and provides solutions to build a water system that emphasizes social, economic, and environmental integration for long-term sustainability.Urban and rural communities…
- Michigan’s Lead Drinking Water Protections Survive Legal ChallengePress ReleaseMichigan’s Lead Drinking Water Protections Survive Legal ChallengeDETROIT, MI – Michigan’s Lead and Copper Rule, passed to prevent future disasters like Flint’s lead in drinking water crisis, was upheld in court. The nation’s most protective lead standard, which helps keep lead out of drinking water, survived all but one yet-to-be decided legal challenge from cities and water utilities. Chief Judge of the Michigan Court of Claims Christopher M. Murray said “the arguments raised by the plaintiffs sound more in the nature of matters that could have—and in fact appear to have been—addressed during the public comment period." The Natural Resources Defense…
- Trump Administration to Propose Management Plan for Utah’s Bears Ears National MonumentPress ReleaseTrump Administration to Propose Management Plan for Utah’s Bears Ears National Monument WASHINGTON – The Bureau of Land Management is expected to release its final Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) and proposed Monument Management Plan (MMP) tomorrow for Bears Ears National Monument. These will undergo administrative protest and consistency review periods before becoming final.The following is a statement from Kate Desormeau, senior attorney for the Natural Resources Defense Council: “We’ll carefully review the management plans for Bears Ears, but we don’t even need to see the details to object, because this whole endeavor of shrinking a national monument to a shadow of…
- Carmakers, California Agree to Clean Car StandardsPress ReleaseCarmakers, California Agree to Clean Car Standards WASHINGTON - - Four automakers and the state of California today agreed to continue tightening vehicle greenhouse gas emission standards through 2025, delivering another body blow to the Trump administration’s attempt to roll back the nation’s clean car standards. The following is a statement by Luke Tonachel, director of clean vehicles and fuels at the Natural Resources Defense Council (NRDC): “This announcement reaffirms the authority of California -- and every other state -- to set eminently achievable vehicle pollution standards that protect the public and curb carbon pollution.” “The agreement clearly demonstrates that the Trump administration’s…
- Ohio’s HB 6 is Irresponsible Economic PolicyPress ReleaseOhio’s HB 6 is Irresponsible Economic PolicyCOLUMBUS – Gov. Mike DeWine signed into law today the controversial nuclear and coal bailout legislation, HB 6, soon after the bill was voted out of the State House. The legislation has also drawn strong criticism for including significant cuts to the state's energy efficiency and renewable energy standards. The following is a statement from Daniel Sawmiller, Ohio energy policy director for the Natural Resources Defense Council (NRDC):“While the rest of the nation is adding jobs left and right from one of the fastest growing sectors of the economy, Ohio is sending a clear…
- Top House Democrats Vow ‘’Bold’’ Plan to Combat Climate ChangePress ReleaseTop House Democrats Vow ‘’Bold’’ Plan to Combat Climate Change WASHINGTON – Top House Democrats—led by chairman Frank Pallone of the Energy and Commerce Committee, chairman Paul Tonko of the Environment and Climate Change Subcommittee, and chairman Bobby Rush of the Energy Subcommittee—today vowed to enact a “bold” plan to combat climate change.The following is a statement from John Bowman, managing director for government affairs at the Natural Resources Defense Council:“Amid President Trump’s dangerous denial and retreat on climate change, House leaders are setting bold goals to protect our children and grandchildren from climate catastrophe. Reaching 100 percent clean…
- Legal Petition Seeks Ban on Plastic Pollution From Petrochemical PlantsPress ReleaseLegal Petition Seeks Ban on Plastic Pollution From Petrochemical Plants Decades-old EPA Limits Require Update As Plastic Production BoomsWASHINGTON― More than 270 community and conservation organizations filed a legal petition today that demands the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency adopt strict new water-pollution limits for industrial plants that create plastic.Plastic plants discharged 128 million pounds of pollutants into U.S. waterways last year, their operators reported to the EPA ― including 77,859 pounds of the most toxic pollutants.Today’s petition calls for a total ban on the discharge of plastic pollution and detectable levels of the most dangerous toxic pollutants, including dioxin and benzene.…
- Trump EPA Doubles Down on Refusal to Ban Pesticide Toxic to KidsPress ReleaseTrump EPA Doubles Down on Refusal to Ban Pesticide Toxic to KidsWASHINGTON — The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency today once again declared its refusal to ban chlorpyrifos, a pesticide linked to learning disabilities in children. The announcement is the latest development in response to a lawsuit pending in the 9th Circuit Court of Appeals that was brought by the Natural Resources Defense Council (NRDC) and a coalition of labor and health organizations that are being represented by Earthjustice.A March court order required the agency to formally respond to objections raised by the groups over EPA’s refusal to ban the…
- Governor Cuomo to Sign Nation-Leading Climate Bill into LawPress ReleaseGovernor Cuomo to Sign Nation-Leading Climate Bill into LawNEW YORK, N.Y. – At an event with former Vice President Al Gore, Governor Andrew Cuomo today announced he will sign into law the New York Climate Leadership and Community Protection Act – groundbreaking legislation that requires the state to achieve a 70 percent renewable electricity supply by 2030 and 100 percent zero emissions electricity supply by 2040, and prioritize equity in implementing these requirements.A statement follows from Mitch Bernard, President at the Natural Resources Defense Council (NRDC):“This is a watershed moment in New York’s legacy of bold climate action and an inspiration…
- Environmental Justice and National Environmental Groups Advance a Historic Joint Climate PlatformPress ReleaseEnvironmental Justice and National Environmental Groups Advance a Historic Joint Climate PlatformTo confront the widening dangers of our climate crisis, leading U.S. environmental justice and national environmental groups today are advancing for the first time an Equitable and Just National Climate Platform.This bold and historic platform highlights a shared vision and calls for national climate action that confronts racial, economic, and environmental injustice as it enacts deep cuts in climate pollution and accelerates a pollution-free energy future that benefits all communities.The signatories to the platform have worked together over the past year to achieve consensus on this climate platform, and…