Trump Administration Orders Removal of Climate and Equity Initiatives at U.S. Department of Transportation
In a bold move this week, the new head of the U.S. Department of Transportation, Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy, issued a series of memos calling for the removal of nearly all initiatives relating to climate change, racial equity, gender identity, diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI), and environmental justice that were implemented during the Biden administration. The directives aim to “identify and eliminate” these programs, marking a significant shift in the department’s priorities.
Expert Critiques Administration’s Directive
Gretchen Goldman, former director of climate change research and technology at the DOT under the Biden administration, voiced strong criticism of the directive. She emphasized that these topics are central to the department’s mission and congressional mandates, stressing that they cannot be easily removed without consequences. Goldman, who recently accepted a position as president of the Union of Concerned Scientists, highlighted the destructive nature of the administration’s actions, particularly in how they could harm vulnerable Americans.
Goldman’s sentiments were echoed by environmental advocates such as Jesse Piedfort from the Sierra Club, who expressed concerns about the impact of these changes on Americans’ wallets and health. The move to rescind climate resilience efforts and equity initiatives could lead to increased pollution from transportation projects and higher fuel costs for citizens, further exacerbating environmental challenges.
Impact on Transportation Systems and Communities
The revocation of DOT programs focused on climate change adaptation and resilience is particularly concerning, as climate change increasingly affects transportation systems. Rising temperatures lead to infrastructure damage, increased flooding, and higher maintenance costs for roads and bridges. By dismantling these initiatives, the DOT risks ignoring critical factors that impact transportation infrastructure and communities across the country.
In addition to climate resilience efforts, the administration’s directive to mandate rigorous economic analysis and dismiss the social cost of carbon poses further challenges. These actions could hinder progress toward clean transportation options and exacerbate environmental issues related to transportation emissions. By prioritizing economic considerations over environmental and social impacts, the DOT may compromise the long-term sustainability of transportation systems.
Despite the upheaval caused by the administration’s directives, DOT employees remain dedicated to their work. The emotional toll of witnessing the unraveling of climate, equity, and environmental justice goals within the department has been profound, with reports of individuals experiencing distress over the changes. However, the commitment to serving the American people and upholding the mission of the DOT remains steadfast, underscoring the resilience and dedication of DOT employees in the face of adversity.
As the transportation sector grapples with these sweeping changes, the future of climate action, equity, and environmental justice within the DOT hangs in the balance. The decisions made by the administration will have far-reaching implications for transportation systems, communities, and the environment, highlighting the critical importance of addressing climate change and equity in transportation policy and planning.
*Dennis Pillion is a reporter for Inside Climate News based in Alabama. He joined ICN in 2024 after 17 years working for Alabama Media Group, including nine as the statewide natural resources reporter. His work for AL.com and The Birmingham News won numerous Green Eyeshade and Alabama Press Association awards for his coverage of environmental issues in Alabama. He was born and lives in Birmingham, Ala.*
