World leaders and climate diplomats have reaffirmed their commitment to the Paris Agreement in response to Donald Trump’s decision to withdraw the US from the global pact. This move undermines efforts to limit global temperature rise to 1.5°C, a target already under strain, as 2023 marked the first year consistently breaching this threshold.
Trump’s administration withdrew from the agreement and rolled back policies to curb fossil fuel use, favouring oil and gas industries. Analysts warn this could add 0.3°C to global warming and potentially weaken international carbon-cutting efforts. However, global progress has previously advanced without US leadership, as seen during George W. Bush’s presidency and Trump’s initial withdrawal efforts.
The US now aligns with conflict-ridden nations like Libya and Yemen in rejecting the 2015 accord. While the US remains a significant emitter, its share of global emissions has declined as developing countries’ output grows. Despite this, nations worldwide have pledged to intensify their climate actions, showcasing a united front against the climate crisis. The world remains determined to advance, even in the face of setbacks. Read More
News Credit: The Guardian
Picture Credit: Tolga Akmen/EPA