
HOW GOOD INTENTIONS BACKFIRE:
NEGATIVE EFFECTS OF FEDERAL ENVIRONMENTAL POLICIES
For several decades, federal policymakers have passed environmental laws to limit pollution, preserve environmental quality, and promote human health. Despite seemingly noble intentions, not all outcomes from these laws have been beneficial. The Institute of Political Economy (IPE) at Utah State University examined how and why negative consequences arise from what appear to be good environmental laws. IPE found that environmental laws can intentionally and unintentionally cause economic or environmental harm. Policymakers can allow markets, property rights, and common law to solve environmental issues without the shortcomings of laws and regulations.
THE REALITY OF MAKING ENVIRONMENTAL POLICIES
- Intentionally or unintentionally, negative consequences result from seemingly good environmental policies.
- Politicians and bureaucrats aren’t all-knowing and can’t always foresee the environmental and economic implications of their policies.
- Politicians and bureaucrats often use laws and regulations strategically to fulfill their own preferences and to benefit themselves.
