A fossil fuel in focus as policy rolls back emissions rules
China's anti-corruption drive has extended to the coal sector, with a Shanxi mine official under investigation as authorities broaden inspections following May's deadly blast. Reports say the probe targets discipline and law violations, underscoring ongoing reforms in the province's heavy industry.
Major European rivers are facing prolonged low water levels amid heatwaves. Danube and Rhine routes have reduced traffic and higher costs, with officials warning levels may rise next week as rain returns in parts of the region.
China pushes back on claims of “China Shock 2.0,” arguing the issue is untenable and viewing recent trends as an opportunity, while preparing to meet U.S. tariffs and EU protections.
A MAHA-backed letter to Trump, Kennedy and cabinet officials has voiced health-first concerns about coal-powered data centers and urged a shift toward solar, geothermal, and efficiency. The move signals growing friction between MAHA activists and the administration as data centers draw increasing scrutiny.
Copernicus confirms August 2026 tied for hottest month on record, with Western Europe enjoying its warmest summer. Global oceans reach new highs as El Niño intensifies. Scientists warn that emissions continue to drive extreme conditions and urge rapid action.
The EPA has rolled back Biden-era power-plant emissions rules as part of a broader deregulatory push. The move, announced at a G20 energy ministers meeting, removes requirements for fossil-fuel plants to install emissions-control technologies and could reshape the nation’s emissions trajectory.
The Environmental Protection Agency has repealed most of the Biden-era carbon-pollution standards for power plants and is proposing to eliminate remaining greenhouse-gas rules for the sector. The agency argues the rules exceed its authority under the Clean Air Act and would not meaningfully curb emissions. The move follows a broader push by the Trump administration to unleash American energy and roll back climate regulations.
The EPA has rolled back 2024 carbon-pollution standards for power plants, arguing a non-endangerment stance and seeking to ease industry regulation. The move follows a broader pattern of deregulatory climate steps and faces criticism over health, cost, and long-term emissions impacts.
A White House-backed set of trade commitments aims to thaw tensions with China, lowering some tariffs for both sides and promising greater cooperation on goods, agriculture, and certain industries. Details remain uneven, with questions over rare earths and enforceability.