Since coming into presidential power, the Trump administration has implemented new policies and executive orders, many of which pertain to the environment. According to Sidley Austin, a global law firm, these actions include increasing domestic energy production, cutting back on climate legislation and offshore wind projects, drilling more for fossil fuels and calling to remove electric vehicle goals and environmental justices.

Science teacher Christine Tomanovich teaches the AP Environmental Science course, which focuses on environmental issues and sustainability.

“Lawmakers have made progress with policies addressing climate change, conservation and pollution, but many efforts fall short of the urgent action needed. To be more effective, they should prioritize stronger regulations on emissions, invest in renewable energy, enforce corporate accountability, protect natural ecosystems and support sustainable infrastructure,” Tomanovich said.

Downers Grove community members will see national policy changes as Trump’s executive orders take effect in society.

Freshman Eliana Yong plans to study law after high school with a specialization in environmental policy. She shared her views on recent environmental legislation.

“With America as the most powerful country in the world, as well as the second-largest carbon-emitting country, I believe that America has a duty to protect people of the future, as well as the people of today. For there to be environmentally sustainable lawmaking, there needs to be lawmakers who are less concerned about the growth of their wallets and more about the future,” Yong said.

According to the National Public Radio, Illinois will attempt to keep their current philosophy regarding environmental policy amidst presidential changes. While issues within ecosystems may not continue to be federally funded, Illinois plans to keep reserving money for environmental problems.

“In local government, Illinois is doing an incredible job with using clean energy, as nearly 70% of our energy comes from clean [nuclear and renewable] sources,” Yong said.

While Trump’s new initiatives haven’t had time to fully take effect, there are some concerns about the potential impact they could have on the planet.

“Our well-being is deeply connected to the health of the planet. A thriving environment provides clean air, water and land, which are fundamental for human survival and the survival of other species. Environmental degradation, such as pollution, deforestation and climate change, present serious risks to our health, food security and overall quality of life,” Tomanovich said.

People interested in involving themselves with environmental initiatives have multiple opportunities on the local and state level.

“If you are passionate about the environment, you can involve yourself in local government: write letters to government leaders expressing the importance of better environmental protection laws,” Yong said. “Additionally, you can attend meetings or join in climate rallies. Although it can feel like you’re the only person in a much larger fight for change, even being aware of Earth’s climate crisis or informing yourself makes a difference.”

Multiple organizations within the school community focus on environmental issues.

“Members of the DGS community can advocate for better environmental laws and policies by engaging with local initiatives, such as the Village’s Environmental Sustainability Plan, and participating in public meetings or providing feedback. They can also get involved with the Environmental Concerns Commission (ECC) or join local advocacy groups like Greener Grove, which drive environmental reforms,” Tomanovich said.

Yong advocated for more national action when it comes to eco-focused legislation.

“It is absolutely not enough. Lawmakers need to hold polluters accountable by discharging stricter penalties for large CO2-emitting companies, as well as incentives for those same companies to be cleaner regarding their energy usage,” Yong said.

The issue of environmental policy continues to draw attention from both sides of the political aisle as the Trump administration establishes itself within the governmental system.

“America has an undeniable influence on the entire planet, and for there to even be a planet that is able to support humankind, our influence has to be a positive one, because if it isn’t, humanity will come to an end,” Yong said.