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EPA Administrator Lee Zeldin: Protecting the environment and growing the economy are compatible
Summary
Administrator Lee Zeldin told attendees the administration rejects a binary choice between environmental protection and economic growth, saying agencies can reduce regulatory burdens while producing environmental gains and citing the administration's "top 500" environmental actions.
Administrator Lee Zeldin, the head of the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, told the conference that the agency is pursuing a dual approach: reducing permitting delays while achieving environmental improvements. "It is not a binary choice where you have to choose to either protect the environment or grow the economy," he said, adding, "We can, should, and must choose both."
Zeldin said the administration compiled its "top 500 pro environmental actions" in the first year and argued those accomplishments demonstrate the approach in practice. He credited industry innovation and engagement with regulated parties, saying EPA meets with automakers, pipeline firms and farmers to ensure regulations reflect technological advances. The moderator noted Utah has added "over 1,000,000 people" in recent years while air quality has improved; Zeldin said such improvements come from industry efficiency and better technology.
