Paper: GS – III, Subject: Environment and Ecology, Topic: Global Efforts, Issue: US Role against Climate Change.
Context:
The United States, historically the largest emitter of greenhouse gases and a nation with vast financial and technological resources, holds a critical position in the global fight against climate change.
Key Takeaways:
| Paris Agreement: It is a legally binding international treaty on climate change, adopted in 2015, at the COP21 to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC). It aims to limit global warming to below 2 degrees Celsius above pre-industrial levels, with efforts to limit the increase to 1.5 degrees Celsius. The Paris Agreement emphasizes nationally determined contributions (NDCs) and encourages all countries to take climate action. Countries must review and update their NDCs every five years to enhance their efforts and increase ambition over time. Article 28 of the Paris Agreement lays out the procedure and timeline for a country’s withdrawal from the treaty. Any time after three years from the date on which this Agreement has entered into force for a Party, that Party may withdraw from this Agreement by giving written notification. |
Absence from COP30 and Paris Agreement:
- The U.S. withdrew from the Paris Agreement under President Trump but remains a party to the broader UN Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC).
- At COP30 in Belem, Brazil, the U.S. did not have official delegates, reflecting a reduced presence that may have hindered international progress on emission regulations.
Historical Emissions and Climate Leadership:
- The U.S. is the largest historical emitter of greenhouse gases yet has lowered its emissions by only about 4% between 1990 and 2023.
- Even the Biden administration’s commitment to reduce emissions by 50-52% from 2005 levels by 2030 translates into a roughly 45-46% reduction from 2019, which is close to but slightly above the IPCC’s recommended global reduction target.
- Compared to other nations, the U.S. has been considered a laggard rather than a leader in aggressive climate action.
Climate Finance and U.S. Climate Policy:
The U.S., despite inconsistent leadership and withdrawal, remains crucial to global climate efforts due to its emissions, financial influence, and scientific capabilities.
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