The United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has announced a proposal to revoke the "Endangerment Finding," a 2009 determination that greenhouse gases pose a threat to public health and welfare. This move could significantly limit the federal government’s ability to regulate emissions linked to climate change.
The Endangerment Finding enabled the EPA to set emissions standards for pollutants such as carbon dioxide and methane. It was based on a 2007 Supreme Court ruling that classified greenhouse gases as air pollutants under the Clean Air Act.
The draft rule will undergo a public comment period and interagency review. Legal experts anticipate potential court challenges. Some have noted that the repeal could undermine most of the EPA’s authority to regulate greenhouse gases.
While this proposal focuses on climate-related emissions, it also raises questions about how air pollution creeps into our daily lives. Carbon monoxide is one example of a toxic gas produced by everyday sources like cars and gas appliances. It’s invisible, odorless, and can be deadly within minutes.
Understanding its risks and knowing how to protect yourself is essential for personal safety. Explore this gallery to learn how to stay safe and not sorry.