Is Donald Trump’s Climate Change Skepticism a Serious Threat? Insights and Analysis on the Impact – SABC News, Africa’s Premier News Source.

By Janet Whitton

It’s not just about tariffs and immigration—President Donald Trump has made several decisions that could hurt the environment and the fight against global warming. His actions have raised concerns among many who care about our planet’s future.

Trump’s approach has disrupted global trade. While tariffs grab headlines, his disregard for climate change is equally concerning. He has taken steps that suggest he believes climate change is a hoax. This belief leads to policies that can have immediate and lasting negative effects.

For instance, Trump criticized states with laws aimed at reducing fossil fuel use. He claimed these regulations threaten America’s energy independence and security. Naturally, oil and gas companies welcomed his decision. However, many governors from the US Climate Alliance vowed to resist his order, stating it overreaches their authority.

One of Trump’s significant actions was withdrawing the US from the Paris Agreement. This meant not only pulling out of international climate commitments but also cutting crucial funding for programs that aim to protect the environment. Funding for national parks and weather services has also been slashed, affecting scientific research and climate prediction programs in universities.

Here are some of the major actions Trump has taken:

• Withdrew from the Paris Climate Agreement, joining only a few other oil-dependent countries.
• Allowed his administration to fast-track fossil fuel projects.
• Blocked new offshore wind power developments.
• Revoked plans aiming for half of vehicles sold by 2030 to be electric.
• Enabled extensive oil and gas operations on federal lands.
• Facilitated logging in national parks.
• Dismissed key staff from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration.
• Targeted numerous environmental regulations for rollback.

So, how serious are these moves? Some experts suggest that Trump’s policies may have contributed to increased air pollution and health issues in the US. While coal isn’t a clean energy source, some argue that its economic benefits outweigh the environmental costs.

However, it’s not all negative; advancements in renewable energy continue. Solar and wind installations are still functional, and their costs are decreasing. Even if growth slows, they will continue to play a role in energy production.

Interestingly, economic downturns often lead to reduced carbon emissions. Yet, we are still far behind on targets to keep global warming below 1.5°C. Current projections indicate a potential rise of about 2.7°C by 2100.

According to an Oxfam International report, the wealthiest 1% of the global population contributes more than double the carbon emissions of the poorest 50%. Low-income countries, which comprise nearly 60% of the world’s population, contribute less than 15% of global greenhouse gas emissions, while Africa as a whole accounts for about 4%.

Trump’s isolationist stance may shield the US from immediate repercussions, but it doesn’t negate the impact of American policies on global communities. In fact, without US leadership, international climate organizations may find it easier to implement new policies. Although some of Trump’s actions harm countries like South Africa, progress toward renewables continues there, albeit slowly. The government recognizes that addressing climate change is vital for future generations.

This discussion highlights the need for a balanced approach that considers both economic and environmental factors. As we navigate these complexities, it’s clear that national decisions resonate across borders, affecting people worldwide.

For additional insights on climate change and its impacts, check out authoritative sources like the [United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC)](https://unfccc.int).

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