Patagonia CEO Slams EPA Deregulation as Climate Risks Rise

Patagonia CEO Yvon Chouinard has issued a sharp critique of the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), arguing that its current policies under Administrator Lee Zeldin are “endangering” American businesses in the context of climate action. Chouinard, known for his longstanding commitment to environmental stewardship, has accused the agency of undermining years of progress by rolling back key regulations designed to address the climate crisis. He described the move as Orwellian, noting that the EPA—founded by Richard Nixon to combat environmental degradation—now appears to be abdicating its responsibility to mitigate climate impacts [1].

Zeldin has been vocal about his vision for the EPA, which includes deregulation as a means to reduce the cost of living and boost energy and manufacturing sectors. However, Chouinard and others in the corporate and environmental communities argue that this approach is misguided. He pointed out that inflation and supply chain issues are not being addressed by deregulation but are instead being exacerbated by inconsistent policies and trade disruptions. Moreover, the U.S. has already seen significant gains in renewable energy and manufacturing jobs, thanks in part to policies like the Inflation Reduction Act, which are now at risk of reversal [1].

Chouinard emphasized that over 10,000 businesses have committed to science-based emissions reductions. He warned that the current regulatory environment would leave these companies caught between government inaction and market momentum. This uncertainty complicates corporate climate strategies and raises questions about the feasibility of long-term sustainability goals. The result, he argued, is a climate of confusion that could discourage further investment in green technologies and initiatives [1].

The recent EPA decision to overturn the 16-year-old "Endangerment Finding"—which classified greenhouse gas emissions as a threat to public health and the environment—has drawn significant criticism. This ruling limits the EPA’s authority to regulate emissions under the Clean Air Act, a tool that has been central to reducing industrial pollution and mitigating climate change. Chouinard described the move as a betrayal of both environmental progress and corporate responsibility, suggesting that it prioritizes the interests of fossil fuel companies over public and environmental well-being [1].

The economic impacts of climate change are becoming increasingly evident, with businesses bearing the costs of extreme weather events. According to the U.S. Census Bureau, nearly 10% of businesses experienced financial losses due to climate-related disasters, with some losing up to 32% of revenue. In 2024 alone, the U.S. suffered $182.7 billion in economic damage from 27 separate billion-dollar climate events. These figures underscore the growing financial risks associated with a warming planet, a reality that Chouinard argues will be worsened by deregulatory policies [1].

Chouinard’s criticism also extends to what he sees as the Trump administration’s broader assault on the renewable energy sector. Policies such as the de-designation of offshore wind areas and the reauthorization of controversial herbicides like dicamba reflect, in his view, a preference for short-term economic gains over long-term sustainability. He warned that these actions could discourage private sector investment in clean energy and slow the transition toward a low-carbon economy [1].

Despite the regulatory uncertainty, Chouinard has pledged that Patagonia will continue its efforts to reduce carbon emissions and support environmental sustainability. He emphasized that climate action is not just a moral obligation but also a sound business strategy. Patagonia’s commitment to sustainability, including its 2022 decision to donate company ownership to a trust dedicated to environmental causes, reflects its belief in the importance of long-term environmental responsibility [1].

Chouinard called on other businesses to resist what he described as an administration-led push toward “irresponsible behavior” and to reaffirm their climate commitments. He warned that corporate “greenhushing”—the reluctance to publicly discuss sustainability efforts for fear of political backlash—must end. In a global market, transparency and leadership on climate issues are not just ethical imperatives but also essential for maintaining competitive advantage and stakeholder trust [1].

Source: [1] title1 https://fortune.com/2025/08/05/patagonia-ceo-ryan-gellert-epa-lee-zeldin-climate-change/