May 25, 2023 – Washington, D.C. – The American Sustainable Business Network (ASBN), alongside Businesses for Conservation and Climate Action (BCCA), strongly denounces the Supreme Court’s ruling on Sackett vs. EPA, which significantly narrows the scope of the Clean Water Act and removes federal protections for wetlands and streams. This decision threatens public health, local economies, and environmental sustainability.
The ruling gives polluters more freedom to degrade waterways, jeopardizing industries dependent on clean water, including farming, fisheries, outdoor recreation, hospitality, and tourism. Clean water is essential for business growth, job creation, and economic stability, and removing these protections puts communities and businesses at risk.
“While a few polluters will benefit from gutting our nation’s clean water rules, most businesses depend on clean water,” said David Levine, President and Co-founder of ASBN. “This decision prioritizes corporate interests over the economic well-being of local businesses, farmers, and communities that rely on access to clean water.”
The Importance of Wetlands Protection
Wetlands play a critical role in flood prevention, water filtration, and ecosystem health. Losing federal protections for these natural buffers will increase storm surge impacts, pollution, and long-term economic damage. Research shows that every three miles of wetland can reduce up to a full foot of storm surge, helping to mitigate extreme weather events and protect downstream communities.
Next Steps: A Call to Action
With federal protections weakened, it is now up to individual states and Congress to take swift action to defend clean water access. Lawmakers must enact policies that prevent pollution, safeguard drinking water, and protect businesses from the economic fallout of degraded waterways.
To join ASBN’s Clean Water for All campaign and take action, click here.
Media Contact:
Colton Fagundes
Policy Director, American Sustainable Business Network
cfagundes@asbnetwork.org
