We are in this together.
We are just as committed as ever to moving forward to make whatever progress is possible. The only way we will make it to the other side is together. Here is our Campaign Plan outlining how we are taking action.
Our plan of action includes:
#1. Defend bedrock environmental laws, climate-focused agencies and environmental oversight
Congress is considering legislation that would destroy environmental agency budgets, expand drilling on public lands and waters, fast-track mining permitting, and eliminate methane reduction requirements and fees. The extreme actions the Trump administration has taken so far include:
- Issuing Executive Orders declaring a National Energy Emergency to fast-track oil, gas, and mining projects
- Directing the the Department of Energy to quickly authorize liquified natural gas (LNG) export facilities and deepwater ports
- Undoing climate regulations including those reducing air pollution from fossil fuels
- Eliminating environmental justice rules and funding
- Proposing slashing 65% of EPA’s budget
- Asserting Presidential control over previously independent agencies like the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC)
Earthworks will use every tool in our toolbox to defend the laws that protect communities, air, and water from the worst impacts of extraction.
#2. Work with local and state campaigns where progress is still possible
In states with more receptive leadership, we’ll help officials develop stronger environmental policies. In more challenging jurisdictions, we’ll continue our work with local groups to address specific mining, oil, and gas injustices. For example:
- Influencing the state of Colorado to take stronger climate action including new rules for methane and other toxic air emissions
- Advancing protections in Pennsylvania to reduce gas waste dumping in landfills and on roads, and to increase buffer zones around gas sites
- Reforming New Mexico’s oil and gas waste regulations to require companies to pay for the pollution they cause
#3. Work with allied groups to build stronger coalitions
Communities living close to oil and gas and mining projects will need unprecedented support to stand up to powerful corporations so we can:
- Put the brakes on proposed oil and gas export terminal projects and petrochemical facilities in the Gulf Coast and Appalachia
- Defend Indigenous lands from mining proposals in California, Alaska, Montana, and other states
#4. Call out polluting corporations
With your support, we will force corporations to reckon with their climate-destructive actions by:
- Exposing the oil and gas companies back-tracking on their climate commitments
- Using optical gas imaging and satellite technologies to hold companies accountable for methane pollution at oil and gas sites
- Promoting solutions in the auto sector to reduce demand for new mining to supply battery minerals for electric vehicles
- Advancing climate policies in the European Union that can improve corporate behavior in the U.S. and globally
#5. Defend our democratic rights
The battles we are fighting in 2025 come with larger challenges and risks than ever before. We resolve to protect people exercising their right to speak out and protest against policies that put corporate interests ahead of the health and safety of our citizens. Along with our allies we will stand united to protect those targeted for exercising their constitutional rights.
How You Can Take Action
1. PAY ATTENTION — This is not “business as usual.” The best first step? Stay informed. Part of the Administration’s tactic is to “flood the zone” with unending announcements to overwhelm us. There is a lot of misinformation, particularly on social media, so find unbiased news sources and organizations. While you are keeping up to date, be mindful of the time you spend scrolling the news so you don’t get discouraged.
2. KEEP PRESSURE ON YOUR LOCAL, STATE AND FEDERAL GOVERNMENT OFFICIALS — It is our responsibility to hold our government officials accountable and to insist that they resist Trump’s unprecedented abuse of executive power and unilateral action. Let’s all commit to speaking up often — our democracy depends on it. Calling your representatives weekly and showing up to ask them hard questions when they are in your district are important ways to make your voice heard.
3. ACT LOCALLY — Use your influence to help win local battles. There are many local civic organizations and professional associations to volunteer with to build a strong movement.
4. GENEROUSLY SUPPORT GROUPS STANDING UP FOR OUR RIGHTS — In the face of massive federal cuts and threats to civil rights, free speech, and diversity, equity and inclusion, consider how you can support groups working towards a healthier future for all of us. Whether that’s through providing mutual aid, volunteering your time, taking aligned actions, or making donations to causes you believe in, we all have a part to play.
5. TAKE CARE OF YOURSELF AND THOSE AROUND YOU — This is going to be a long, hard, and unpredictable battle. It’s so important for everyone to sustain their health and well-being if we’re going to make it through. Build mutually supportive relationships with friends, family, colleagues, and neighbors and look out for each other.
Your Support Makes Our Work Possible
Earthworks helps families on the front lines of mining, drilling, and fracking. We use sound science to expose health, environmental, economic, social, and cultural impacts of mining and energy extraction. To support our efforts, please consider a tax-deductible donation today that will go toward our work reforming government policies, improving corporate practices, influencing investment decisions, and encouraging responsible materials sourcing and consumption.
