The administration will continue to link energy and manufacturing policy to the concept of “environmental justice.” This term, now prominently featured on the EPA website, will mean increased scrutiny for environmental permits for all manufacturers, including our members. If the administration feels that a permit may disproportionately impact a community, it may block the permit.
We will see new initiatives implemented through executive agencies. For example, in the last few weeks of 2022, the Federal Trade Commission has begun to review its standards for the use of common green terminology in product advertising, including use of terms such as recyclable, recycled content, energy efficient and sustainable. The FTC regulates advertising claims in the United States, and products that use these terms will need to stay up to date on any new rules. The FTC has the authority to investigate advertising claims on products. ACMA will participate in this process and keep members informed as this process proceeds.
Composites remain well positioned as part of the solution to core issues driving the Washington agenda. ACMA will continue to work to advocate on behalf of our industry.
Dan Neumann is vice president of government relations at ACMA. Email comments to dneumann@acmanet.org.
