US Withdrawal from Climate Agreements

GS 3 – international relation

Background:
The United States withdrew from the Paris Agreement in 2021, marking its third departure from a major climate accord.

US Engagement with Climate Treaties:

• First Exit (2001): The US, under President George W. Bush, withdrew from the Kyoto Protocol, citing economic concerns and the exclusion of major emitters like China and India.
• Second Exit (2017): Under President Donald Trump, the US withdrew from the Paris Agreement, arguing it disadvantaged American interests while benefiting top polluters.
• Rejoining (2021): President Joe Biden re-entered the Paris Agreement soon after taking office, reaffirming US commitment to global climate action.

US Position on Climate Agreements:

• Historical Emissions: As the largest emitter until 2006, the US has often prioritized economic interests over binding emission cuts.
• Developed vs. Developing Nations: The US opposes policies that disproportionately burden developed countries and advocates for shared responsibilities among developing nations.
• Global Influence: Despite exiting agreements, the US remains a key player in climate diplomacy, engaging in negotiations and discussions.

Reasons Behind US Withdrawals:

• Economic Considerations: The US views climate accords like the Kyoto Protocol and Paris Agreement as potential threats to industrial and energy sectors.
• Equity Concerns: US policymakers argue that emission targets are unfairly lenient toward major developing economies.

Current Emission Commitments:

• Greenhouse Gas Reductions: As of 2022, the US had only achieved about one-third of its 2030 emission reduction goal.
• Biden Administration Targets: New targets aim for a 61%-66% reduction in emissions (from 2005 levels) by 2035, signaling increased climate ambition.

Impact on Developing Countries:

• Climate Finance: The US withdrawal from the Paris Agreement disrupted contributions to the Green Climate Fund, affecting climate adaptation efforts in developing nations.
• Global Climate Goals: While some developing nations may lower their climate ambitions due to US policy shifts, the broader impact is tempered by global efforts.
• Renewable Energy Investments: US private sector investments in renewable energy have surged since 2017, despite federal policy fluctuations.

US Energy Policy:

• Oil and Gas Production: The US continues to expand fossil fuel extraction, with increased output under both Trump and Biden administrations.
• Fossil Fuel Dependence: Despite climate pledges, the US remains reliant on oil and gas, particularly through fracking and drilling.
• Coal and International Policy: The US has historically advocated against coal use in global climate negotiations, differentiating itself from coal-dependent nations like China and India.