The international community is reacting to a major policy shift by the United States, as President Donald Trump recently signed a memorandum to withdraw from several key global treaties. The move includes severing ties with the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) and the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC).
The decision has sparked responses from various organizations and leaders, highlighting the potential consequences for the US and the global community.
Simon Stiell, Executive Secretary, UN Framework Convention on Climate Change
Simon Stiell criticized the move, emphasizing the US’s foundational role in establishing both the UNFCCC and the Paris Agreement. “While all other nations are stepping forward together, this latest step back from global leadership, climate cooperation and science can only harm the US economy, jobs and living standards,” Stiell stated. He also noted the economic opportunities in clean energy that the US might miss. More details can be found here.
David Widawsky, Director, WRI US
David Widawsky described the withdrawal as a strategic error that sidelines the US from international climate cooperation. Widawsky warned that US businesses and communities might fall behind as other nations advance in the clean-energy sector. He remained optimistic about global climate efforts, noting that “global climate diplomacy will not falter.” Additional insights are available here.
Savio Carvalho, Managing Director for Campaigns and Networks, 350.org
Savio Carvalho criticized the US for “becoming the only country in the world unwilling to participate” in global climate efforts. Carvalho argued that the move weakens US economic strength as renewable energy reshapes the global economy. Despite the US’s stance, Carvalho noted that other countries remain committed to a fossil-free future. Read more here.
Amanda Leland, Executive Director, Environmental Defense Fund
Amanda Leland pointed out the potential drawbacks of the US retreating from climate efforts, including higher energy costs and worse health outcomes for Americans. Leland emphasized the importance of continued efforts by states and cities to reduce climate pollution and protect public health. For further reading, click here.
Dr. Rachel Cleetus, Policy Director and Lead Economist, Union of Concerned Scientists
Dr. Rachel Cleetus described the US withdrawal as a destabilizing move that sacrifices global cooperation. She stressed the importance of collective global action to address climate impacts: “Withdrawal from the global climate convention will only serve to further isolate the United States.” More information can be found here.
Fenton Lutunatabua, Program Manager, Pacific & Caribbean, 350.org
Fenton Lutunatabua highlighted the Pacific’s leadership in climate action despite US decisions. He urged for unity in the global fight for a sustainable future. More details are available here.
Jean Su, Energy Justice Director, Center for Biological Diversity
Jean Su criticized the decision as an attempt to prioritize fossil fuel interests over global climate commitments. Su warned that “Pulling out of the UNFCCC is a different order of magnitude from the Paris Agreement.” More insights can be found here.
Romain Ioulalen, Global Policy Manager, Oil Change International
Romain Ioulalen described the US withdrawal as a betrayal, framing it as an act of a “rogue state.” He urged the global community to continue its efforts to move away from fossil fuels. More information is available here.
Dr. Delta Merner, Associate Accountability Campaign Director, Climate and Energy Program, Union of Concerned Scientists
Dr. Delta Merner expressed concern about the US’s disengagement from the IPCC, warning that it leaves the country without access to critical climate science. She emphasized the importance of scientific assessments in guiding policy decisions. Further details can be found here.
[Main image by Vilkasss/Pixabay]
Original Story at sustainabilityonline.net