Obama Starts Reversing Bush Enviroment Policy

Monday morning, President Obama spoke about the importance of building a "new energy economy," reducing greenhouse gas emissions, and the executive orders he was about to sign. He reminded Americans of the "longterm threat of climate change," and the dangers of being dependent on "foreign oil."

The two executive orders Obama signed concerning the environment are a good start in reversing former President Bush's environmental policies.

One of the executive orders forces the automotive industry to produce more fuel efficient cars. The new standards for 2011 cars increase fuel efficiency to at least 35 miles per gallon.

"Our goal is not to further burden an already struggling industry," he said. "It is to help America's automakers prepare for the future. This commitment must extend beyond the short-term assistance for businesses and workers. We must help them thrive by building the cars of tomorrow, and galvanizing a dynamic and viable industry for decades to come."

The other executive order directs the Environmental Protection Agency to reconsider California's request to set its own vehicle emissions standards. California contains the two worst air basins in the country: Southern California and the San Joaquin Valley.

"I'm directing the Environmental Protection Agency to immediately review the denial of the California waiver request and determine the best way forward," Obama said. "This helps us create incentives to develop new energy that will make us less dependent on oil."