Biden's Ambitious Emissions Targets Face Uncertainty with Possible Trump Return
December 19, 2024The Biden administration has announced ambitious new goals to reduce U.S. greenhouse gas emissions by 61-66% by 2035 compared to 2005 levels, aligning with the Paris climate accord.
However, Donald Trump's potential return to power in January 2025 raises concerns, as he has previously supported fossil fuels and may withdraw from the Paris Agreement again.
In light of these political uncertainties, environmental advocates emphasize the crucial role of state and local leaders in continuing climate action.
Political challenges, including the possible revocation of tax credits for clean energy, could hinder the achievement of these new targets.
Nevertheless, analysts predict that the U.S. clean energy sector will continue to grow, driven by global trends, despite potential increases in fossil fuel production under a Trump administration.
Experts urge national leaders to challenge Trump’s policies to ensure the U.S. remains committed to its climate goals, emphasizing the urgency of climate science.
Despite these challenges, funding for clean energy initiatives has surged due to the Inflation Reduction Act and the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, which authorized nearly $490 billion for clean energy projects.
Critics, including Oil Change International, argue that the administration's reliance on renewable energy does not adequately address the need to phase out fossil fuel production.
Achieving the new emissions target will necessitate comprehensive changes across various sectors, including energy generation, transportation, and agriculture, with a strong focus on renewable energy.
As the global temperature continues to rise, leading to more severe climate events, the urgency for effective climate action has never been clearer.
A Senate Budget Committee report highlights the economic implications of climate change, noting rising insurance costs and non-renewal rates for homeowners as significant concerns.
Currently, approximately 95% of new electricity sources being connected to U.S. power grids are carbon-free, primarily from solar and wind energy.
Summary based on 37 sources
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Sources
The Guardian • Dec 19, 2024
Biden declares tougher 2035 emissions targets weeks before Trump returnThe Verge • Dec 19, 2024
Biden administration passes the torch to local leaders to keep climate action aliveNew York Post • Dec 19, 2024
Biden pledges to cut US greenhouse gases by more than 60% — as Trump vows to undo climate work