As the Biden administration prepares to transition out of office, it has made a bold commitment to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 61% to 66% below 2005 levels by 2035.
This updated Nationally Determined Contribution (NDC) was submitted to the United Nations on December 19, marking a significant step in the US’s climate strategy under the Paris Agreement.
The Commitment to a Cleaner Future
The new emissions target is part of a broader effort to achieve net-zero emissions by 2050 for all greenhouse gases.
The administration emphasized that this trajectory aligns with global efforts to transition away from fossil fuels, reaffirming its support for initiatives discussed at the recent COP28 climate summit.
However, as President-elect Donald Trump prepares to take office, skepticism looms over whether these ambitious goals can be maintained.
Progress and Challenges Ahead
The Biden administration noted that the US has already surpassed its previous goal of a 17% reduction in emissions by 2020 and is on track to meet its target of 50-52% reductions by 2030.
The success of these initiatives is largely attributed to landmark legislation such as the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law and the Inflation Reduction Act, which together promise substantial investments in clean energy technologies and infrastructure.
However, with Trump’s history of climate skepticism and his previous withdrawal from the Paris Agreement, there are concerns about the sustainability of these commitments.
Trump has openly stated intentions to roll back climate policies and increase fossil fuel production, which could jeopardize progress made under Biden.
State-Level Initiatives: A Bipartisan Approach?
In response to potential federal rollbacks, the United States Climate Alliance, a coalition of governors from 24 states, has set a complementary target of a 60% emissions cut by 2035.
This group represents approximately 55% of the US population and around 60% of its economic output.
Governors like Kathy Hochul of New York and Michelle Lujan Grisham of New Mexico have voiced their commitment to maintaining momentum toward a clean energy economy, regardless of federal policy changes.
Criticism from Climate Advocates
Despite these commitments, some environmental advocates express disappointment with the Biden administration’s NDC.
Ashfaq Khalfan from Oxfam America criticized the lack of specific phase-out deadlines for fossil fuel production and adequate financial support for developing countries facing climate challenges.
He argued that with a climate sceptic poised to enter the White House, the new national climate plan represents only the “bare minimum” for meaningful action.
Conversely, some experts view the updated NDC as a positive step. Linda Kalcher from the Strategic Perspectives think tank described it as a “decent farewell gift” from Biden, highlighting its potential to inspire state-level initiatives aimed at achieving clean energy goals.
Global Context: The Road Ahead
As nearly 200 parties to the Paris Agreement prepare their emissions reduction pledges ahead of upcoming deadlines, only a few countries have submitted their targets for 2035 so far.
The urgency for action is palpable as nations grapple with rising global temperatures and extreme weather events.
The question remains: will the United States uphold its ambitious climate goals in light of changing political leadership?
As international observers watch closely, it will be crucial for both federal and state governments to collaborate effectively in order to meet these targets and contribute meaningfully to global climate efforts.
While the Biden administration’s commitment to reducing emissions is commendable, achieving these goals will require sustained effort and cooperation across all levels of government.
The future of US climate policy hangs in the balance as stakeholders prepare for an uncertain transition ahead.
Credit: africanews
