'Failure is not an option': EPA chief announces strict CO2 limits for fossil fuel power plants

United States Environmental Protection Agency Administrator Michael Regan on Thursday introduced new regulations on fossil fuel-based power plants to combat climate change.

"If finalized, the proposed regulation would mark the first time the federal government has restricted carbon dioxide emissions from existing power plants, which generate about 25% of U.S. greenhouse gas pollution, second only to the transportation sector. The rule also would apply to future electric plants and would avoid up to 617 million metric tons of carbon dioxide through 2042, equivalent to annual emissions of 137 million passenger vehicles, the EPA said," according to Reuters.

In a speech at the University of Maryland, Regan explained that the changes are an investment in the future that will benefit everybody.

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"We're working every single day to ensure that all people, no matter the color of your skin, the money in your pockets, or the community that you live in, realize the full protection of our environmental laws. And today's announcement only solidifies our commitment to protecting those who are most vulnerable among us. Now, the good news is our work is not sacrificed. These aren't restrictions as some would say. This is about seizing the moment and understanding that we have an obligation to not only leave behind a healthier planet for generations that will come after us, but to leave behind a fairer and more just society — to leave behind a nation with a thriving economy, good-paying jobs, and energy security," Regan said.

"Folks, this is our future We're talking about. And we have a once-in-a-generation opportunity for real climate action. So failure is not an option. Indifference, it's not an option. Inaction, it's not an option," Regan continued.

"And let me be clear, it's not about party affiliation, it's not about politics. It's about uniting as a society, as a nation, as a people for the greater good of humanity," he added. "It's about recognizing and acknowledging that we may not exactly agree on the how, but we must agree on the what. We may not see eye to eye on every policy or every solution, but we have to understand that we are all in this fight together."

Watch Regan below or at this link.

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