Is the US Pulling Back on Climate Action? Discover How New Global Leaders, Including China, Are Stepping Up

When President Trump withdrew the U.S. from the Paris climate agreement in early 2025, concerns arose about the impact on global climate efforts. Many wondered who would step in to take the lead in tackling climate change.

As a researcher in global environmental politics, I’ve observed that even without U.S. leadership, new figures are emerging to guide international cooperation on climate issues.

The U.S. initially joined the Paris Agreement in 2015 under President Obama, pledging to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 26% to 28% by 2025. While many applauded this commitment, others criticized it as inadequate. As of 2023, the U.S. had only lowered emissions by 17.2%, missing its target.

Back in 2017, Trump’s first withdrawal drew swift backlash from scientists and politicians alike, who called it reckless and shortsighted. They feared the agreement could collapse, but it endured. Companies like Apple and Google continued to pursue their own climate goals, and states like Hawaii passed laws supporting the agreement.

Now, with Trump pulling out again, countries like China and those in the European Union are stepping up. On July 24, 2025, they reaffirmed their commitment to climate targets, emphasizing that major economies must act decisively to combat climate change.

What’s remarkable about the Paris Agreement is its flexibility. As a nonbinding accord, one country’s exit doesn’t invalidate the entire framework. It survived the first U.S. withdrawal and looks poised to weather this one too.

Emerging blocs, particularly from developing countries, are also taking a stand. The Like-Minded Group of Developing Countries, which includes China and India, is pushing for developed nations to meet their climate commitments.

China has taken a leading role post-U.S. exit, pledging more climate finance than the U.S. did. This aligns with its strategy for economic growth and influence in developing nations. China is expanding its renewable energy initiatives through its Belt and Road Initiative, investing in projects like solar energy in Egypt and wind energy in Ethiopia.

Despite being the largest coal consumer, China has ramped up investments in renewable energy, aiming to peak emissions before 2030 and reach net-zero by 2060. In 2024, half of the global renewable energy capacity came from China.

The UK is also enhancing its commitments. It plans to cut emissions by 77% by 2035, with more specific targets across various sectors.

Interestingly, while many American businesses have remained quiet due to political pressure, they are still making strides in sustainability. Recent data reveals that around 500 companies have reduced their carbon emissions intensity by 3% compared to the previous year.

Looking ahead to the U.N. climate conference in Brazil, known as COP30, the focus will be on how countries can balance economic growth with ecological sustainability. The upcoming discussions will reveal who will rise to lead in these efforts.

In summary, the global response to climate change continues to evolve, with new leaders emerging and a resilient framework holding strong despite political shifts.



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China,climate change