Key Facts
• On September 12, 2025, the Trump administration proposed ending a federal reporting program.
• The program, active since 2010, required over 8,000 U.S. facilities to report emissions.
• Facilities included coal plants, industrial factories, and oil refineries.
• Data from the program was used to create air pollution reduction regulations.
• EPA Administrator Zeldin called the program “bureaucratic” and “ineffective.”
• Critics argue the proposal benefits polluters and violates existing laws.
• The EPA stated reporting is not legally required under the Clean Air Act.
• Certain oil and gas facilities must still report emissions, but deadlines are extended to 2034.
• Environmental groups claim the move undermines transparency and public health.
• The data also supports U.S. obligations under the UN climate framework.
Summary
The Trump administration has proposed ending a federal greenhouse gas reporting program established in 2010. This program required over 8,000 facilities, including coal plants and refineries, to report emissions data annually, which informed air pollution regulations. EPA Administrator Zeldin criticized the program as costly and ineffective, while environmental groups condemned the move as a violation of transparency and legal obligations. The EPA argued that reporting is not mandated under the Clean Air Act, though some oil and gas facilities must still report emissions, with deadlines extended to 2034. Critics warn this decision could harm public health and hinder climate change efforts.
