The United States has officially withdrawn from the Paris climate agreement, marking a significant shift in its environmental and energy policy. President Donald Trump signed an order to withdraw, making the U.S. the fourth country to leave the accord, joining Iran, Yemen, and Libya. The Paris agreement, established a decade ago in the French capital, aims to limit global warming to well below 2°C and pursue efforts to cap it at 1.5°C above pre-industrial levels. This decision comes at a time when global temperatures in 2024 exceeded 1.5°C above pre-industrial levels for the first time in a calendar year.
The withdrawal has elicited disappointment and concern from numerous countries, unifying them in their commitment to combat climate change despite the absence of the U.S. However, the withdrawal process requires a one-year waiting period before it becomes official. During his speech at the Capital One Arena in Washington, DC, President Trump criticized the Paris agreement as a "ripoff" and expressed his intent to prioritize American interests.
"represent the people of Pittsburgh and not Paris" – President Trump
The Paris agreement is not legally binding but serves as a critical framework for global cooperation in mitigating climate change. The U.S.'s departure is not unprecedented; President Trump's previous attempt to exit was reversed by President Joe Biden in 2021. The current move has revived a sense of déjà vu among international observers, with many anticipating a potential rejoining of the agreement in the future.
The decision aligns with the administration's focus on bolstering American energy production. Since 2016, U.S. oil production has surged by 70%, positioning the nation as the world's leading producer and exporter of oil. Additionally, the U.S. has emerged as a dominant force in liquefied natural gas (LNG) exports, with exports rising from nearly zero in 2016 to significant levels today.
"We will bring prices down, fill our strategic reserves up again, right to the top, and export American energy all over the world" – President Trump
Critics, including UN climate chief Simon Stiell, warn that America risks missing out on a burgeoning global clean energy market estimated at $2 trillion last year. The new administration has also vowed to terminate the "green new deal," referring to the Inflation Reduction Act, which was a cornerstone of Biden's climate policy channeling billions into clean energy initiatives.
"We will be a rich nation again, and it is that liquid gold under our feet that will help to do it" – President Trump
The international community remains concerned about the implications of the U.S.'s withdrawal from the Paris agreement. Many countries view this move as a setback in global efforts to combat climate change. The decision has sparked discussions about the necessity of continued cooperation and innovation to address climate issues.
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