Stephen L. Johnson, US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) administrator, shared his perspective on the state of the environment at a Policy Leadership Forum at RFF in April. Johnson is the first career employee to assume the top position at EPA.
During his talk, Johnson highlighted progress the United States has made on environmental protection in recent years, remarking that “our air, our water, and our land are cleaner today than they were a generation ago.” He noted, however, that there is work still to be done.
“I believe America is moving into a new phase of environmental protection,” he said, “evolving from pollution control to pollution prevention to sustainability.”
Johnson laid out challenges facing the United States and the greater global community as they move forward.
I believe America is moving into a new phase of environmental protection... evolving from pollution control to pollution prevention to sustainability.
Stephen L. Johnson
Among them, he listed ensuring a safe, clean, and sustainable water supply, greater energy security, and preserving biodiversity.
He also noted that these challenges are different from those the world faced a generation ago and likewise must be approached differently.
“Addressing the multidimensional environmental challenges of the 21st century requires a more holistic mindset, one that looks beyond today and toward achieving a truly sustainable solution for tomorrow.”
The public remarks were Johnson’s first since the Supreme Court ruled that EPA has the authority to regulate greenhouse gas emissions from automobiles. When asked what the response to the ruling would be, Johnson replied “We are actively reviewing the Supreme Court decision . . . and considering our options. Stay tuned.”
A version of this article appeared in print in the Winter 2007 issue of Resources magazine.
