On Wednesday, Michael Regan was confirmed by the U.S. Senate to be administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency. I was pleased to see that Sen. Bob Casey, D-Pa., voted to confirm him.
Mr. Regan is a climate leader who has spent his career fighting on behalf of marginalized communities to ensure that everyone has access to clean air and water. After four years of rollbacks and industry handouts, this is the leadership we need to ensure our public health and environment receive the necessary protections.
His confirmation will have a huge impact here in Pittsburgh, especially when it comes to environmental justice communities suffering from poor air quality in the region due to lax federal regulation of industrial polluters.
His confirmation will also help us address the numerous other climate issues we face such as the exacerbation of flooding, extreme weather patterns, the rise of ticks, etc. With Pennsylvania being the third-largest emitter of carbon in the nation, Mr. Regan will help direct our state toward a healthier and more sustainable future.
A new day for climate change is here. I urge Mr. Casey to join him in taking climate action and fulfill their obligation to their constituents by fighting for breathable air, drinkable water, and a livable environment for our future generations.
ANNIE REGAN
Richland
The writer is Clean Energy Pittsburgh program manager for PennFuture.
First Published: March 19, 2021, 4:00 a.m.
