The U.S. EPA announced it will take 31 actions in the largest deregulatory effort in the country’s history. Redefining waters and wetlands subject to federal regulation and cutting rules intended to lower carbon emissions will be part of the agency’s efforts.

EPA Administrator Lee Zeldin said the moves help fulfill part of President Donald Trump’s campaign promise to encourage energy production and cut regulations focused on slowing climate change. Environmental groups criticized the actions. They are particularly concerned about the EPA’s reconsideration of a 2009 finding that greenhouse gas emissions harm human health and safety.

The EPA announced plans to work with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers to write a new definition for waters of the United States. This would determine what federal agencies can regulate. The new definition is intended to lower permitting costs and regulatory burdens. Zeldin said the goal is to protect the country’s water resources while empowering American farmers, land owners, entrepreneurs and families.

In 2023, the Supreme Court ruled that waters must have a “continuous water connection” to navigable waters to fall under federal jurisdiction. Before that, a broader definition placed waters and wetlands that had a connection to larger navigable waters under federal regulations.

Many of the environmental regulations have been in conflict for years with clearly established battle lines. Democrats and environmental groups typically call for stronger protections, while Republicans and industry groups seek a new approach. At least one environmental group has already promised legal action.

Read more about EPA’s plans to roll back regulations here.