Executive Order 13990

Definition

Executive Order 13990 is a directive issued by President Joe Biden on January 20, 2021, aimed at addressing climate change and environmental protection through the immediate review and reconsideration of actions taken by the previous administration. This order signifies a major shift in U.S. federal policy, emphasizing the need to restore scientific integrity and promote a clean energy economy while strengthening public health protections.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Executive Order 13990 rescinded several policies enacted under the Trump administration that were seen as harmful to environmental protections.
2. The order mandates federal agencies to prioritize climate change considerations in their policymaking processes.
3. It underscores the importance of scientific research in formulating environmental regulations and policies.
4. The executive order aims to rejoin international climate efforts, including commitments to the Paris Agreement.
5. It reflects a broader agenda to achieve net-zero emissions by 2050 and promote sustainable infrastructure investments.

Review Questions

• How does Executive Order 13990 illustrate the shift in U.S. federal policy regarding environmental issues?
  • Executive Order 13990 marks a significant shift in U.S. federal policy by reversing many of the environmental deregulations implemented during the previous administration. It places climate change at the forefront of federal decision-making, signaling a commitment to restoring scientific integrity and prioritizing public health. The order's emphasis on re-evaluating prior policies shows a clear intent to take aggressive action against climate change and promote sustainability.
• Discuss the implications of Executive Order 13990 for federal agencies and their approach to policymaking related to climate change.
  • Executive Order 13990 requires federal agencies to integrate climate change considerations into their policymaking processes, fundamentally altering how regulations are developed. Agencies must reassess prior decisions that undermined environmental protections, creating an obligation to align with scientific findings and public health goals. This shift encourages collaborative efforts across agencies to develop comprehensive strategies that address climate-related challenges effectively.
• Evaluate the long-term impact that Executive Order 13990 may have on U.S. participation in global climate initiatives.
  • Executive Order 13990 is likely to have a profound long-term impact on U.S. participation in global climate initiatives by reestablishing commitments such as those outlined in the Paris Agreement. By prioritizing climate change as a central issue in U.S. policy, the order fosters international collaboration on sustainability efforts and showcases leadership in addressing global environmental challenges. This renewed focus can strengthen alliances with other countries committed to reducing greenhouse gas emissions, ultimately enhancing collective action against climate change.

Related terms

Climate Change: A long-term alteration in temperature and typical weather patterns in a place, largely driven by human activities, such as burning fossil fuels.

Environmental Protection Agency (EPA):

A U.S. government agency responsible for regulating and enforcing national standards for environmental protection and public health.

Executive Orders:

Official directives issued by the President of the United States to manage the operations of the federal government.