US rolls back progress made on climate change policy but transition to renewable energy to continue

The US government this week announced a decision to roll back parts of its existing strategy for meeting its climate commitments under the Paris Agreement.

This action by the Trump Administration includes steps to dismantle the Clean Power Plan, a key component of the US’ plan to deliver on its greenhouse gas emissions reduction commitments.

In response, David Tong, WWF-New Zealand Campaigner said: “While this is disappointing, it won’t stop the global shift to renewable energy. More American people already work in renewable energy jobs than fossil fuel energy jobs. Global action under the crucial 2015 Paris Agreement is bigger than any one country.

“When I was at the UN climate talks in Marrakesh last November, in the week Trump was elected, I saw unwavering commitment to the Paris Agreement spanning all continents. No other country tried to use Trump’s climate policy as an excuse to water down their commitments. Instead, governments from China to Europe recommitted to implementing the Paris Agreement."

What does this mean for New Zealand?

“What this US policy change highlights for New Zealand is the need for bipartisan commitment to climate action,” Mr Tong said. “Last year, WWF-New Zealand delivered an open letter signed by over 60 businesses, community organisations and prominent New Zealanders, calling for real climate action from government. Since then, over a thousand Kiwis from all walks of life have added their voices to the call.

“Climate action is too important to be a political football. It matters to everyone. We urge all New Zealand political parties to commit to commit to getting our net carbon emissions to zero by 2050, establishing a non-partisan climate commission, and giving it the power to chart our course to a safe climate future beyond the three year electoral cycle.”

WWF’s global Climate & Energy Practice Leader and former President of the 2014 Lima UN climate talks, Manuel-Pulgar Vidal, said: “Hampering the US’ ability to deliver on its international climate commitments will impact the world’s climate trajectory, but it will not define its outcome.

“Our ability to achieve the promise of the Paris Agreement does not rest on the actions of one government alone. At COP22 held in Marrakech last year, French President Holland said the Paris Agreement is an ‘irreversible’ process. We agree.

“The speed and scale of meeting the climate challenge has always required global solutions from all parts of the international community. It is up to all of us to reaffirm our commitment for a clean energy future, and to deliver on the goals of the Paris Agreement.

“Companies and cities are not waiting to act; neither should we. Delivering on the Paris Agreement means more jobs, fewer health problems and increased access to cheaper, cleaner electricity. We have no time to lose: momentum remains on our side and together, we are unstoppable.”

“Hampering the US’ ability to deliver on its international climate commitments will impact the world’s climate trajectory, but it will not define its outcome.”

ENDS

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