Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Administrator Lee Zeldin announced that his agency is prioritizing the removal of hazardous materials from areas affected by the recent fires in Los Angeles. The Palisades Fire, which ignited on January 7 and spread to Malibu, has devastated thousands of homes and displaced tens of thousands of residents. In a meeting with Pacific Palisades residents, Zeldin emphasized the EPA’s commitment to working tirelessly to ensure the safety of the environment and the health of the community.
The EPA is currently engaged in the first phase of cleanup, referred to as “Phase 1,” which focuses on the removal of hazardous materials such as remnants of electric vehicle batteries and various household toxins. Initially, the agency had projected a 90-day timeline for completing this survey and cleanup. However, under the direction of President Donald Trump and Administrator Zeldin, this timeline has been significantly reduced to just 30 days, allowing for a quicker response to the aftermath of the fires.
Following the hazardous material removal, the next stage, known as “Phase 2,” will involve the removal of debris from the burned properties. This phase is managed by the Army Corps of Engineers, although homeowners have the option to hire their own contractors. Major General Jason Kelly, overseeing the debris removal, expressed confidence in expediting this process, stating, “I plan to beat a year,” despite the original timeline being set at 18 months.
While residents have expressed relief at the swift action taken by the EPA, concerns have arisen regarding the temporary storage of hazardous materials at Will Rogers State Beach. Zeldin assured the community that the EPA is taking precautions to ensure that “nothing touches the ground” during the management of these materials, pledging that their operations will prioritize the safety of land, air, and water.
Despite the proactive approach of the EPA, some residents have voiced frustration over delays in the commencement of Phase 2. They reported that, although many had signed “Right of Entry” forms to allow the Army Corps access to their properties, bureaucratic delays at the county level have hindered the process. Ambassador Ric Grenell, the president’s envoy for special missions, has called for improved collaboration among federal, state, and local agencies to expedite the rebuilding efforts in the affected areas.
As the community grapples with the aftermath of the fires, the EPA continues to deploy resources, with approximately 1,200 personnel currently on the ground. The agency remains dedicated to accelerating its efforts to restore safety and normalcy to the region.