Environmental Policy Analyst

Ashley Du

Ashley is a current student at Westridge School in Pasadena, California. Ashley is an environmental policy analyst at YIP, and she hopes to inspire more youth to engage in environmental policy.

From writing policy briefs to editing journal submissions and Op-Eds, Ashley has grown her passion for increasing public awareness of current environmental policies and advocating for policies that support amore sustainable future. Ashley also enjoys working at environmental nonprofits, conducting research, and playing in the orchestra.

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All articles by the author

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Policy Briefs by the author

EPA Endangerment Finding Reversal

Environmental Policy

April 5, 2026

The recent rescinding of the 2009 EPA Endangerment Finding under the Trump Administration has resulted in concerns raised by stakeholders over public health, environmental protection, and the future of the US. Various key environmental policies, including the Clean Air Act and regulations involving vehicle and technology transition, have been heavily impacted by the rescission. There are potential policy changes that may prevent some of the harm, including strengthening state-level climate policies, congressional legislative action, and grassroots and market-based initiatives.

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Clean Energy Project Cuts

Environmental Policy

April 5, 2026

Funding cuts made by the Department of Energy to several clean energy projects demonstrated a realignment of federal policies, shifting away from renewable energy deployment toward fossil fuel dominance. The brief outlines the DOE’s May termination of 24 demonstration projects totaling $3.7 billion, followed by the October 2025 cancellation of 321 awards amounting to an estimated $7.56 billion.

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Drinking Water Access in Tribal Communities

Environmental Policy

February 15, 2026

This brief outlines the historical and political landscape surrounding drinking water access in tribal communities. This brief explores topics such as the development of drinking water on reservations, the economic, health, and social impacts of lack of safe drinking water, past policies issued by the EPA, and proposed policy options advocating for safe drinking water in tribal communities. By examining the past and current policies addressing drinkable water access, this policy brief breaks down the logistics and effectiveness to provide implementable policy recommendations, directing navigation towards a more inclusive and sustainable framework for water governance.

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COP30

Environmental Policy

February 2, 2026

This policy brief argues that COP30 exposed a critical accountability gap in global climate governance: while ambitious adaptation and mitigation goals were reaffirmed, the absence of binding enforcement mechanisms which were exacerbated by U.S. federal withdrawal undermines implementation, particularly for vulnerable and youth populations. To address this gap, the brief evaluates three policy mechanisms: a standardized global climate reporting system, mandatory climate education, and legally binding climate finance commitments tied to GDP. It outlines COP30’s main goals, such as strengthening adaptation finance and accelerating the implementation of the Paris Agreement. The brief also examines the attendance of world leaders, highlighting the notable absence of the U.S. government. Despite this absence, the brief analyzes how U.S. influence persisted through former U.S. negotiators and philanthropic leaders, state and local governments, and the country’s economic and market power. COP30 demonstrates the need for stronger alignment between global policies and underscores the urgent needs of the youth and vulnerable communities. This paradox reveals a structural weakness in global climate governance: major emitters can shape outcomes without being bound by collective commitments.

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Major EPA Changes Under the Trump Administration

Environmental Policy

December 20, 2025

This brief will cover major changes to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) under the Trump administration, including regulatory rollbacks associated with the “Big Beautiful Bill.” These policies notably prioritize increased fossil fuel production, deregulation, and reduced support for renewable energy. These changes are crucial to understanding environmental quality, public health, and the economy.

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History of Toxic Waste

Environmental Policy

October 30, 2025

This brief outlines the history and policy landscape of toxic waste disposal in the United States. Starting with identifying the historical context of hazardous waste disposal over the last decade, following with an analysis of their effects on BIPOC communities through different socioeconomic lenses. The brief also examines past and current policies addressing toxic waste disposal, breaking down logistics and their effectiveness and closes with recommended policy options that strengthen accountability while creating a more sustainable future.

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