The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has launched its largest-ever deregulatory initiative, rolling back 31 regulations across multiple industries. Announced on 12 March 2025 by EPA Administrator Lee Zeldin, the changes align with President Trump’s executive orders aimed at reducing regulatory costs, revitalising domestic manufacturing, and enhancing energy production. This move will significantly impact manufacturers, chemical processors, and energy providers, altering compliance obligations and cost structures.
Major Regulatory Rollbacks Target Energy and Manufacturing
Reversing Emissions and Energy Restrictions
Among the key measures, the EPA is reconsidering regulations on power plants, oil and gas facilities, and greenhouse gas reporting. This includes revising the Clean Power Plan 2.0 and easing Mercury and Air Toxics Standards (MATS) for coal-fired power plants. The rollback of wastewater regulations for coal power plants (Oil and Gas ELG) aims to reduce compliance costs and increase domestic energy output.
Impact on the Automotive and Industrial Sectors
The EPA is also reviewing light-, medium-, and heavy-duty vehicle regulations, which previously supported the shift towards electric vehicles. Manufacturers reliant on internal combustion engines and conventional supply chains may see reduced compliance costs. Other notable actions include overhauling the Particulate Matter (PM 2.5) National Ambient Air Quality Standards, which previously imposed strict emissions limits affecting small businesses and industrial facilities.
Implications for Manufacturers and Service Providers
These deregulations will create both opportunities and challenges. Lower compliance costs may boost competitiveness for U.S.-based manufacturers and energy producers. However, businesses engaged in global supply chains must balance these domestic policy shifts with international environmental standards. Companies in the chemical sector should monitor changes in hazardous air pollutant rules (NESHAPs) and risk management programmes affecting refineries and processing facilities.
State-level policy responses will play a crucial role, as the EPA moves to decentralise regulatory control. Manufacturers should engage with state agencies to understand how enforcement and compliance landscapes may change.
What’s Next for Industry Stakeholders?
Businesses should review their current environmental compliance strategies and adjust for upcoming regulatory shifts. Engaging with industry associations and monitoring state-level interpretations of these federal rollbacks will be critical. Manufacturing leaders should also assess potential supply chain adjustments to align with evolving emissions and energy policies.
