U.S. President Donald Trump announced on February 13, 2026, the revocation of the 2009 Greenhouse Gas Endangerment Finding, a cornerstone of federal climate regulations. The move, described by Trump as the "single largest deregulatory action in U.S. history," eliminates the legal basis for rules governing vehicle emissions, electric vehicle mandates, and fossil fuel industry reporting requirements.
Speaking alongside U.S. Environmental Protection Agency Administrator Lee Zeldin, Trump criticized the Obama-era policy as "disastrous" and claimed it "severely damaged the American auto industry." The 2009 determination had identified six greenhouse gases, including carbon dioxide and methane, as threats to public health, enabling regulations across multiple sectors.
Former President Barack Obama responded sharply on social media, stating: "Without [the endangerment finding], we'll be less safe, less healthy and less able to fight climate change." Environmental groups warn the decision could slow global climate efforts, while some industry leaders applaud reduced regulatory burdens.
The policy shift comes as Asian markets increasingly dominate renewable energy innovation. Analysts suggest the move may create short-term opportunities for traditional energy exporters in Asia but could complicate international climate agreements.
