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(Source – The Hindu, International Edition – Page No. – 8)

Topic : GS2 – International Relations

  • President Donald Trump signed a decree for the U.S. to withdraw from the 2015 Paris Agreement on climate change.
  • The U.S. is the only country to have withdrawn three times from climate agreements, including the Kyoto Protocol in 2001 and twice from the Paris Agreement under Trump.
  • This move casts doubt on global climate commitments, especially as the Earth has exceeded the 1.5°C warming mark for a full calendar year.
  • The U.S. is the world’s second-largest emitter of greenhouse gases and is viewed as a global leader in addressing climate change.

Global Climate Leadership: The U.S. withdrawal weakens global climate leadership, making it harder to drive international cooperation on climate change.Delayed Emission Reductions: Reduced U.S. commitment may delay progress toward achieving global emissions reduction targets, exacerbating climate change impacts.Shift in Global Dynamics: Other countries may adjust their climate strategies, potentially weakening the collective effort to meet the 1.5°C target.Geopolitical Tensions: U.S. actions could heighten geopolitical tensions, particularly with countries focused on sustainable development.

  • Both Republican and Democratic administrations have prioritized business interests in domestic climate policies.
  • Despite climate commitments, oil and gas production in the U.S. has increased, making it the largest global producer of crude oil and gas.
  • In 2022, the U.S. became the largest exporter of liquefied natural gas (LNG).
  • The U.S. has achieved only one-third of its 2030 greenhouse gas reduction targets as of 2022.
  • President Biden committed to a 61%-66% reduction in emissions by 2035, which experts believe is insufficient to meet the 1.5°C global warming target.
  • Renewable energy investments have grown significantly, limiting the extent of policy rollback.
  • While formal withdrawal will take a year, U.S. engagement in global climate forums like COP 30 in Brazil may persist.
  • Trump’s approach suggests a dual strategy, balancing domestic interests while engaging selectively in international climate discussions.

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