EPA Administrator Michael Regan on Thursday implored the younger generation to seize the opportunity his agency has given it to address climate change and aid disadvantaged communities saddled with pollution.
Regan met with the National Environmental Youth Advisory Council, a new outside board that is advising EPA on how to work with younger people on existential issues such as global warming and environmental justice. The council, which held its first meeting Wednesday and Thursday at the agency’s headquarters in Washington, was established as President Joe Biden looks to reconnect with young voters during his 2024 reelection bid.
Regan has often met with youth leaders on his travels as head of EPA and has sought to include them at the agency. He told the youth council’s members Thursday that they can change how EPA operates.
“Remember that this is a crucial point in history where your voices and your perspectives are valid,” Regan said. “You truly have the potential to make a real difference in this agency’s decisionmaking processes.”
