ASP Statement Against Rollback of Clean Car Standards
Yesterday, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) formally announced its intention to rollback the nation’s most effective climate and energy security policy, with its announcement of the completion of the Midterm Evaluation process. These national fuel economy standards, set to increase significantly through 2025, were poised to prevent the import of millions of barrels of oil. Only a year ago, the EPA had deemed them achievable and working.
The American Security Project released the following statement:
“The Administration’s decision to roll back the clean car standards is bad for national security. These standards reduce the greenhouse gas pollution that threatens our national security; climate change presents clear threats to America’s long-term stability. They have also allowed the U.S. to cut its oil consumption, making our country more secure. The standards were set to save 2.4 million barrels of oil per day by 2030, more than we currently import from the Middle East and Venezuela combined.
“Effective clean car standards save Americans money at the pump and keep dollars here at home, where we can spend it on our families. With more efficient autos, American dollars won’t go overseas to oil-rich nations in regions inflamed by conflict. As a nation, we must pursue solutions that protect Americans from the instability across the globe. This decision does just the opposite.
In 2017, EPA deemed the clean car standards, introduced in 2012, as working and achievable. Administrator Pruitt is wrong to say the auto manufactures were unable to make cars the people “both want and afford.” The auto companies were full partners in determining these standards – and a roll-back will only harm American economic competitiveness as foreign manufacturers continue to make the cars of tomorrow while American carmakers rely on the dirty technology of the past. Rather than rolling back substantial progress, EPA should keep these standards in place and continue progress towards a safer future.”
Media inquires can be directed to Andrew Holland at aholland@americansecurityproject.org.
