New EPA Administrator Lee Zeldin just kicked off the Powering the Great American Comeback initiative, aiming to boost both environmental protection and economic growth. The plan lays out five key priorities for the agency over the next 100 days and beyond—but the real question is whether the EPA can strike that balance or if one goal will come at the expense of the other.

“The EPA’s mission is to safeguard human health and the environment, and we can do so while unleashing the full potential of the American economy,” said Zeldin. “Through this initiative, we are committed to clean air and water, energy independence, permitting reform, AI leadership, and reviving American auto jobs.”

Five Pillars of the Initiative

1. Clean Air, Land, and Water for Every American

Broadly speaking, ensuring a safe and healthy environment for all Americans remains a core focus of the EPA. Administrator Zeldin emphasized the agency’s commitment to maintaining high environmental standards while efficiently responding to emergencies. 

“President Trump has a strong record of reducing toxic emissions, cleaning up hazardous sites, and advancing conservation while fostering economic growth,” Zeldin stated. “We will continue to uphold these priorities while being responsible stewards of taxpayer dollars.”

2. Restoring American Energy Dominance

Energy independence is a big priority in this plan. Zeldin made it clear that he doesn’t want the U.S. relying on foreign energy—he believes the country needs to produce more of its own. While this could mean lower costs and greater security, there are potential downsides. 

Expanding domestic energy production, especially in fossil fuels, could raise environmental concerns, from increased emissions to habitat disruption.

“We need to cut energy costs for hardworking Americans while ensuring our nation’s security,” he said. “By investing in the cleanest energy technologies and working with top innovators, we will cement America’s position as an energy leader.”

3. Permitting Reform and Cross-Agency Partnerships

According to Zeldin, one of the biggest hurdles to economic growth is the complex and time-consuming permitting process. The EPA plans to work closely with federal and state agencies to streamline approvals, making it easier for businesses to invest in the U.S. 

While a faster permitting process could boost economic growth, it also raises concerns about weakened environmental protections. Quicker approvals might mean less thorough reviews, increasing risks like pollution or habitat destruction.

Streamlining regulations could also favor big corporations over smaller businesses and limit public input. Rushing projects may lead to legal challenges, costly delays, or environmental damage, making it crucial to balance efficiency with responsibility.

“Companies should not have to endure years of uncertainty and red tape just to create jobs in our country,” Zeldin asserted. “We will remove bureaucratic barriers while maintaining environmental protections, encouraging billions of dollars in investment.”

4. Making the U.S. the AI Capital of the World

With artificial intelligence revolutionizing industries, the EPA wants the U.S. to lead in AI innovation. The initiative seeks to support AI development by promoting clean, reliable energy for data centers and technology hubs. 

“America must be at the forefront of AI, and we will provide the necessary resources and infrastructure to make that happen,” Zeldin said.

5. Revitalizing American Auto Jobs

The last part of the initiative is all about bringing back American auto manufacturing. Zeldin emphasized the need to roll back past policies that have made it harder for the industry to thrive and push for smart regulations that put American workers first.

“Our auto industry has suffered, but under President Trump, we will bring those jobs back,” Zeldin declared. “By working with industry leaders and policymakers, we will restore America’s status as a global auto manufacturing powerhouse.”

This plan outlines five major priorities for the next 100 days and beyond, but can the EPA really do it all? Critics might argue that pushing economic growth could mean loosening environmental protections, raising concerns about what will take priority in practice.

Despite these critiques, Zeldin is confident in this plan.

“Our vision is clear: a cleaner, stronger, and more prosperous America,” Zeldin concluded. “With President Trump’s leadership, we will achieve that goal.”