In a dramatic shift, President Trump announced the U.S. withdrawal from over 60 international treaties and organizations, including the crucial climate change agreement created 33 years ago. This decision follows a year of significant budget cuts to climate programs in the U.S.
By leaving these agreements, the U.S.—historically the largest emitter of greenhouse gases—risks losing its influence on climate negotiations. Currently, America is set to be the only country without a part in international efforts to combat pollution and support nations that suffer the most from climate change. Legal questions arise, as it remains unclear if a president can unilaterally end a Senate-ratified treaty.
Trump is also attempting to cut the U.S. out of the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC), though it’s uncertain if he can stop American scientists involved in those assessments. Losing that role would mean the U.S. gives up its chance to shape significant climate science findings.
Despite these federal steps backward, state and local governments are committed to reducing greenhouse gas emissions. However, the administration is challenging these local efforts legally, recently suing two California cities over their restrictions on natural gas use in new buildings.
Reactions to Trump’s announcement have been swift. Lauren McLean, mayor of Boise, Idaho, noted the loss of American climate leadership after decades of progress. “The American people will pay the price for this decision,” she said, highlighting the impact of climate change felt in communities through wildfires and droughts. McLean emphasized the importance of U.S. participation in decisions that allow for investments addressing climate issues, which benefit families and lower costs.
Gina McCarthy, a former EPA chief, described the withdrawal as “embarrassing and foolish.” She pointed out that losing influence in global climate policy could undermine America’s economic interests and disaster preparedness.
Senator Sheldon Whitehouse criticized the move, stating that once a treaty is ratified, only the Senate can withdraw from it. He expressed concern over fossil fuel interests driving this decision, which he believes jeopardizes public well-being and U.S. competitiveness.
Rachel Cleetus of the Union of Concerned Scientists added that this withdrawal starkly isolates the U.S. on the global stage, threatening the collaborative efforts necessary to address mounting climate impacts. She stressed that collective action is essential to secure a livable future.
As the world responds to increasing climate-related disasters, experts suggest that the U.S. cannot afford to withdraw from these crucial dialogues. Manish Bapna from the Natural Resources Defense Council emphasized that while the current administration can pull away from the UN climate convention, future leadership can choose to reengage, bringing the U.S. back to the table.
Historically, the U.S. led global climate efforts, paving the way for international cooperation. The decision to withdraw thus shifts not only policy but also risks diminishing the country’s stature on the global stage. The coming years will reveal how these changes affect both local and international responses to climate challenges.
Source link
2015 Paris Agreement,America Is All In,Climate Change,Climate Mayors,Donald Trump,Gina McCarthy,global climate treaty,Lauren McLean,Manish Bapna,Natural Resources Defense Council,paris accord,Paris Agreement,Rachel Cleetus,Sheldon Whitehouse,Trump Administration,Union of Concerned Scientists
