(Source – The Hindu, International Edition – Page No. – 6)
Topic : GS 3: Conservation, environmental pollution and degradation
Context
- Developing countries need a strategic approach in response to the U.S. withdrawal from the Paris Agreement.
- They should avoid the misconception that they can compensate for the gap left by the U.S.

Introduction
- Trump’s decision to exit the Paris Agreement is a significant setback for global climate efforts.
- The U.S. is a major contributor to global warming, responsible for over 20% of cumulative carbon emissions since the pre-industrial era.
- As a signatory of the UNFCCC, the U.S. is expected to lead in climate action and support developing nations financially and technologically.
U.S. Climate Action and Global Responsibility
- U.S. Climate Responsibility: Historically, the U.S. has not met its climate obligations, with emissions rising from 1992 to 2005.
- Shift in Commitments: Transition from legally binding commitments (Kyoto Protocol) to voluntary pledges (Paris Agreement) reflects U.S. political constraints.
- Obama’s Legacy: The shift initiated in Copenhagen and solidified in Paris was a response to U.S. political dynamics.
Biden Administration and U.S. Climate Policies
- Biden’s Climate Efforts: The administration claims progress, but the U.S. has become the highest crude oil producer.
- Climate Finance Target: A modest target of $300 billion annually was set, influenced by U.S. and allied positions.
- Emission Reduction Goals: Biden’s updated goals aim for a 60% reduction below 2005 levels by 2035, which is still inadequate compared to global needs.
U.S. Climate Policy and Global Consequences
- Trump’s Withdrawal Impact: The withdrawal fits a pattern of inconsistent U.S. commitments, affecting global climate responsibilities.
- Burden on Developing Countries: Developing nations face increased commitments without adequate support, risking greater inequalities and food insecurity.
Action and Reaction
- Mixed Reactions: Responses from diplomats and media range from resignation to bravado about missed investment opportunities for the U.S.
- Market-Based Solutions: The belief that markets alone can solve climate issues has led to inadequate action, with fossil fuels still dominating energy use.
- Public Sector Role: Developing countries rely more on public sector involvement, providing accountability that is often lacking in developed nations.
Complicity of Academia and Civil Society
- Sub-national Illusions: Academia and civil society have mistakenly promoted the idea that local actions can replace national commitments.
- Lack of Serious Discussion: There is insufficient engagement with climate denialism, particularly in U.S. climate governance discussions.
Advice for Developing Countries
- Need for a Calibrated Strategy: Developing countries should strategize carefully, recognizing that they cannot fill the gap left by the U.S.
- Historical Context: The U.S. has historically shifted climate burdens onto the global South, complicating future negotiations.
The Case for Multilateralism
- Importance of Multilateralism: Abandoning multilateral approaches in response to the U.S. withdrawal is misguided; global warming requires collective action.
India’s Role in Climate Action
- India’s Commitment: India and other nations in the global South should continue climate action while focusing on development and adaptation.
Conclusion
- Political Will Required: Effective global climate action hinges on political commitment from all nations, especially to bring the U.S. back to collaborative efforts.