Michael Regan, the current head of the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) under President Joe Biden, has announced that he will be leaving the agency on December 31, about three weeks before Biden leaves office.
Regan sent a letter to employees highlighting the EPA’s work during his tenure in addressing climate change, reducing air and water pollution, and investing billions under the administration’s climate law to promote clean energy development, leading to substantial economic and public health benefits in communities burdened by pollution.
The big picture: As the first Black man to lead the EPA, Regan emphasized the importance of environmental justice during his time in office and made it a central focus of decision-making.
- He embarked on a “Journey to Justice” tour to spotlight communities severely impacted by industrial pollution.
What we’re watching: Upon leaving the EPA, Regan plans to return to his home state of North Carolina with his family. Jane Nishida will serve as acting administrator for the final weeks of the term, while Dan Utech will be the acting deputy administrator.
