At the recent Meat Institute’s Environment, Labor and Safety (ELS+) Conference in Charlotte, N.C., environmental law expert Chris Dolan delivered a clear message to U.S. meat and pork processors: stay committed to sustainability, even amid federal deregulation.
Dolan, a partner at Faegre Drinker Biddle & Reath LLP, warned that regulatory compliance efforts shouldn’t be dictated solely by the current administration’s stance—especially under a Trump-led push for deregulation of greenhouse gas emissions, wastewater management, and environmental justice initiatives.
“You have to play the long game,” Dolan told attendees. “There are still state, investor, and customer-driven pressures. Even if federal oversight eases, these other stakeholders aren’t going away—and neither are future administrations.”
Why It Matters to Pork Processors
The pork industry is increasingly under pressure to meet 2030 sustainability goals, reduce methane emissions, and comply with environmental justice initiatives, especially in states like California. While federal deregulation may offer temporary relief, Dolan emphasized that:
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State and local regulations remain stringent, especially in progressive regions.
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Customers and investors still expect transparency and action on environmental issues.
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Regulatory reversals are possible, especially if political leadership changes in future terms.
Environmental Justice: A Key Watchpoint
While the federal government rolls back Biden-era requirements protecting disadvantaged communities, Dolan cautioned that many states continue to enforce environmental justice standards. He advised that where pork production facilities are located and their impact on surrounding communities may come under scrutiny in the future.
The Bottom Line
For pork processors, this means continuing to invest in sustainable facility design, GHG reduction, and community engagement—not just to meet current benchmarks, but to ensure long-term regulatory and reputational resilience.
As Dolan summarized: “Decisions made today will still matter four or eight years down the road.”
