FR 2021-02177

Overview

The document reviewed is an executive order issued by the President of the United States, titled "Tackling the Climate Crisis at Home and Abroad." This document, published on February 1, 2021, in the Federal Register, outlines a comprehensive plan to address climate change through both domestic and international efforts. The order underscores the urgency of incorporating climate considerations into U.S. foreign policy and national security, highlighting the need for significant reductions in greenhouse gas emissions and a transition to a clean energy economy.

Key Aspects and Concerns

The executive order sets forth an ambitious agenda aimed at steering the United States towards a sustainable future. However, several issues arise from this attempt to combat climate change:

• Financial Implications: While the order details numerous initiatives, such as developing clean energy infrastructure and revamping environmental policies, it lacks specific guidelines on financial allocations or constraints. This absence of financial specificity raises concerns about potential overspending or misallocation of resources, which could strain government budgets.

• Administrative Complexities: The creation of multiple new positions, councils, and interagency groups could lead to increased administrative costs without clear accountability. This may result in bureaucratic inefficiencies and overlapping responsibilities unless carefully managed.

• Economic Impact on Fossil Fuel Sector: The directive to pause new oil and natural gas leases may significantly impact economic regions reliant on these industries. Although this step is intended to reduce carbon emissions, it could lead to job losses and economic challenges for communities dependent on fossil fuel production unless transitional support measures are put in place.

• Vague Implementation Strategies: Phrases like the elimination of fossil fuel subsidies and the promotion of clean energy investment lack clarity on how these are to be achieved. Clear plans for redistribution of financial resources are necessary to ensure effective implementation and monitoring.

Broader Public Impact

For the general population, this executive order signals a strong federal commitment to confronting climate change, which could lead to long-term environmental improvements and a healthier living environment. However, some may find the complex terminology and policy jargon difficult to interpret, limiting broad public understanding and engagement with these initiatives.

Impact on Specific Stakeholders

• Environmental Advocates: This group will likely view the order positively as it emphasizes increased climate ambition, stringent environmental protections, and sustainability goals aligned with science-based targets.

• Economically Disadvantaged Communities: The initiative aims to promote environmental justice and economic opportunities. However, the effectiveness of these measures depends largely on the successful implementation of community-specific strategies that address historical underinvestment and pollution burdens.

• Workers in the Fossil Fuel Industry: Employees in industries relying on fossil fuels may face uncertainty due to potential job displacement. Although the order mentions the creation of clean energy jobs, it lacks detailed transitional plans or safety nets for affected workers.

• Government and State Agencies: These entities will need to navigate new policy directives and collaborate extensively through newly established councils and interagency groups, which could strain resources without clear guidance and communication channels.

In summary, while the executive order outlines a comprehensive plan to address the climate crisis, its success will depend heavily on how effectively it addresses financial, administrative, and social challenges alongside clear strategies for execution and stakeholder support.