Climate activists in North Carolina brace for new challenges as Trump returns to office

Environmental advocates in North Carolina worry that the incoming Trump administration’s pro-fossil fuel stance will undermine clean energy projects, despite Democratic wins at the state level that could support renewable energy initiatives.

Lisa Sorg reports for Inside Climate News.

In short:

Sherri White-Williamson, co-founder of EJCAN, leads efforts in Sampson County to fight pollution from industrial hog farms, landfills and biogas projects that disproportionately impact low-income and minority communities.
Activists fear that the Trump administration may attempt to cut funding for federal clean energy programs like Solar for All, though legal battles could ensue.
North Carolina Republicans passed a law diminishing the governor’s power over key environmental commissions, which could influence decisions on pipeline expansions and energy projects.

Key quote:

"Those people are going to try everything under the sun to take this money back, even if it means going to the U.S. Supreme Court. Because they do not want this money to end up in these communities."

— Sherri White-Williamson, EJCAN co-founder

Why this matters:

Communities near industrial sites in North Carolina face ongoing threats from air and water pollution, made worse by climate-intensified storms. The rollback of environmental protections could exacerbate these impacts and hinder progress toward equitable clean energy solutions.

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