The American public’s decision to elect Donald Trump as president has raised concerns about the US potentially pulling out of the Paris Agreement on climate change for a second time. Trump has expressed his support for fossil fuels and has indicated his intention to withdraw from the agreement. The EU is now looked upon to take the lead in global climate action if the US opts out once again. Climate activists are disheartened by the potential consequences of a US withdrawal on global climate efforts.
Laurence Tubiana, former France’s climate change ambassador, highlights the economic momentum behind global transition towards greener policies and the risks the US faces by forfeiting its leading role. Recent natural disasters like hurricanes serve as a grim reminder of the urgent need for climate action. The EU believes it has a moral imperative to continue addressing global emissions and building climate resilience, regardless of the actions of other major polluters.
The upcoming COP29 summit in Baku faces uncertainty as the US may potentially withdraw from global climate negotiations under Trump’s leadership. The absence of key leaders like Ursula von der Leyen and Emmanuel Macron adds to the concerns of diminishing global climate ambitions. The EU delegation at the summit aims to maintain momentum and counterbalance the US stance by demonstrating stronger leadership in climate and environmental policy.
With the Trump administration’s track record of deregulation and denial of climate change, the EU is urged to step up as the global leader in environmental policy. The EU delegates at the summit are encouraged to be vocal and visible in promoting climate action and driving investment towards greener technologies. While Trump’s statements on the oil and gas industry may be concerning, it is hoped that he may reconsider his stance on climate change in light of recent natural disasters.
Former Irish prime minister Mary Robinson emphasizes the need for continued global climate action, despite potential US withdrawal from the Paris Agreement. Robinson hopes that recent climate-related disasters in the US may influence Trump’s beliefs on climate change. The EU-US partnership on climate action is seen as critical for addressing the challenges posed by climate change. It is essential for both Europe and the US to work together to create jobs, drive investment, and combat climate change for the benefit of all.
Overall, the reactions to Trump’s re-election and potential withdrawal from the Paris Agreement underscore the importance of global cooperation on climate action. While the US may shift its stance on environmental policy, the EU and other countries must uphold their commitments to mitigate climate change and adapt to its impacts. The upcoming COP29 summit presents an opportunity for the EU to demonstrate stronger leadership in climate diplomacy and maintain pressure on major polluters to increase their contributions to global emissions reduction efforts.
