Trump’s Policies on Oil Drilling and Deforestation
During his presidency from 2017 to 2021, Donald J. Trump’s environmental policies, particularly concerning oil drilling and deforestation, sparked widespread controversy. These approaches raised serious concerns about the role of the United States in the global fight against climate change.
Trump’s Policies on Oil Drilling and Deforestation
During his presidency from 2017 to 2021, Donald J. Trump’s environmental policies, particularly concerning oil drilling and deforestation, sparked widespread controversy. The Trump administration prioritized energy independence and economic growth over environmental protection. This approach raised serious concerns about the role of the United States in the global fight against climate change.
Regarding deforestation, the Trump administration also took steps that alarmed environmentalists. The size of several national monument forest areas was significantly reduced. For example, in Utah, the Bears Ears and Grand Staircase-Escalante monuments saw their protected lands drastically shrunk. These changes paved the way for mining, logging, and other commercial activities. Forest conservation is crucial, not only for preserving biodiversity, but also because forests act as carbon sinks that help mitigate global warming. Despite scientific warnings, the administration prioritized short-term economic gains over environmental sustainability.
Additionally, Trump withdrew the United States from the Paris Climate Agreement, signaling a major step backward in the global effort to combat climate change. The administration also shortened environmental impact assessment processes, fast-tracking large infrastructure projects and allowing oil pipelines and highways to cut through natural habitats with limited environmental oversight.
References:
The White House Archives (Trump Administration). (2017). An America First Energy Plan.
United Nations. (2017). Statement on U.S. Withdrawal from the Paris Climate Agreement.
The New York Times. (2020). Trump’s Environmental Rollbacks.