The Trump administration’s rollback of environmental regulations and shameful pandering to the oil and gas industry pose significant harms, from rising greenhouse gas emissions to the degradation of lands and public waterways (including the water we drink) and worsening public health. But anyone who cares about American values should be equally troubled by the underhanded ways in which this government is executing its pro-fossil fuel agenda, often with zero input from the public and apparent disregard for the rule of law. It’s become clear that the fight to protect our communities and the environment is also a fight to uphold our democracy.

Robust public participation in government decision-making is a pillar of a healthy democracy and self-governance, and it benefits all Americans regardless of their political leanings. By giving individuals a say in decisions affecting their lives, the government is more equipped to enact the desires of the American people. It’s a process that, at its best, recognizes the rights of individuals and incorporates local expertise to produce outcomes that are more equitable and that better meet the needs of their communities. This extends to environmental decisions that impact public health, like where energy infrastructure should be built, how much pollution is allowed in our water and air, and what controls to put in place to ensure companies follow the rules. The Trump administration, in collaboration with the oil, gas, and petrochemical industries, is further entrenching America’s reliance on fossil fuels and endangering the health of millions by undermining public participation in environmental decision-making at every level.

Fossil Fuel Expansion and the Democracy Emergency

In January, President Trump issued a declaration of a sham “energy emergency,” which the government is using to justify efforts to bypass environmental laws and public engagement to fast-track fossil fuel projects, while simultaneously attacking and blocking clean energy projects. This has been followed by a systematic dismantling of the bedrock National Environmental Policy Act, which for 55 years has required government agencies to conduct detailed environmental reviews on federal projects or policies and to consult the public before making decisions. Over the years, there have been hundreds of NEPA success stories. The NEPA process has protected the Colorado River watershed from radioactive waste, stopped coal mines from being built near culturally and environmentally significant areas, and preserved wetlands from expansive highway projects.

Read the full article about fossil fuel expansion undermining democracy by Jen Duggan and Joy Banner at Stanford Social Innovation Review.