Trump’s presidency is likely to stall efforts to significantly reduce emissions, with the potential for far less progress compared to an administration that prioritizes climate action.
The United States is the largest historical contributor to excess atmospheric carbon pollution, emitting more than any other country on a per-capita basis, despite being the world’s wealthiest economy. Given its significant economic influence and vulnerable geography, the US should indeed take the lead in discussing climate finance, particularly for global initiatives aimed at mitigating the impacts of climate change. But Trump’s surge in popularity has déjà vu undertones – we’ve witnessed this script play out before.
During his last term in office, Trump withdrew the US from the Paris Agreement. The administration has committed to revisiting its stance and is now prepared to take an even bolder step, vowing to withdraw entirely from the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC). Leaving the Paris Settlement is akin to abandoning one’s seat at the negotiating table, whereas withdrawing from the UNFCCC is equivalent to making a drastic course correction by launching into an entirely new orbit. While this drastic measure might have long-term consequences that are challenging to undo, experts also warn.
Uncertainty surrounding the outcome of future events in the US looms large, casting a shadow over ongoing discussions. Camilla Born, an independent climate advisor and former senior UK official at COP26, said during a carbon transient-hosted event that the increased durability of global efforts is due to the lack of a dynamic and pushy US presence on climate action.
Some consultants assume that others will readily step up to fill the gap. On the CarbonBrief event, Mohamed Adow, founder and director of Energy Shift Africa, noted that “Various factors drive local weather patterns beyond the White House.”
Uncertainty prevails in the local weather community. The upcoming negotiations may hold subtle hints about what we can rely on for the next few years. The potential impact of a Trump presidency on global climate action is uncertain and far-reaching. A Trump administration might slow or reverse progress made under the Obama administration, potentially harming efforts to address climate change. Can Europe rise to the challenge? Will China’s meteorological prowess solidify its global leadership in weather forecasting? We will meticulously monitor every detail.
At COP28, I’d like to provide additional context on our organization’s stance regarding the transition away from fossil fuels, building upon our advocacy efforts last year over the “loss and damages” fund at COP27.
Discovering the intricacies surrounding COP29’s agenda?
