An executive order signed by Trump aims to relax environmental regulations for commercial space companies, suggesting a significant increase in launches by 2030 for national security. The order may allow these companies to bypass required environmental reviews under the National Environmental Policy Act (Nepa). The FAA currently reviews launch permits, which has faced criticism for delays from space companies while receiving backlash from environmental groups for insufficient protections. Rocket launches can severely disrupt local environments and threaten endangered species, particularly highlighted by legal actions against SpaceX.
Trump's executive order enables commercial space companies to bypass environmental reviews, which may increase rocket launches leading to potential harm to wildlife and ecosystems.
Sean Duffy deemed the executive order a visionary move that emphasizes the importance of the private rocket industry for national security by suggesting substantial increases in launches by 2030.
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