Trump's Climate Agenda Sparks Global Concerns; Paris Agreement, Emissions Rules at Risk

U.S. President Donald Trump, a Republican and climate change skeptic, is poised to re-enter office with plans that could undermine global climate efforts. Trump's agenda includes potential withdrawal from the Paris Agreement, reversing the United States' current commitment to cutting greenhouse gas emissions. If initiated, the U.S. would officially exit the Paris pact in a year, remaining a party only until COP30 in Brazil (November 2025). Frances Colón of the Center for American Progress described Washington's role in COP30 as uncertain.

Trump’s team is reportedly considering an unprecedented move to leave the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC), though its feasibility remains debated. Under his first term, Trump slashed U.S. contributions to international climate finance, halting a $3 billion pledge to the UN’s Green Climate Fund (GCF). Advocates like Joe Thwaites of the Natural Resources Defense Council warn further cuts are likely, jeopardizing commitments to developing nations.

Domestically, Trump plans to revive fossil fuel production and undo regulations like the EPA’s greenhouse gas standards for power plants and methane rules. This deregulatory approach, supported by industry groups, risks setting back U.S. emissions goals outlined in the Inflation Reduction Act (IRA). However, experts like Hannah Kolus from Rhodium Group highlight bipartisan support for certain IRA incentives, complicating repeal efforts.

Trump's skepticism extends to climate science, with concerns he may weaken agencies like the EPA and NOAA, vital for monitoring global warming. Despite challenges, advocates, including Rachel Cleetus of the Union of Concerned Scientists, stress the resilience of democratic institutions in countering climate rollbacks.

Source: Climate Change News