The presidential elections next week could be decisive for the United States and other countries in the fight against climate change. Should former President Donald Trump return to the White House, he plans to continue his skeptical stance on climate change, having withdrawn the United States from the Paris Agreement and reversed numerous environmental regulations during his first term.
Trump has announced his intentions to halt federal support for the clean energy transition, hinder the development of renewable energy, and expand the production of oil and gas, including drilling in the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge. On the other hand, Vice President Kamala Harris is committed to using her regulatory power to reduce emissions that contribute to climate change.
Trump has promised to facilitate oil drilling on public lands and waters, keep coal plants operational, and build pipelines. He has also threatened to withdraw the United States from the Paris Agreement and future international climate accords. Meanwhile, Harris, who considers climate change an "existential threat," has not presented a detailed plan regarding climate and the environment.
Experts indicate that the actions of the United States can influence both national and international progress on climate change, being a potential world superpower and one of the largest emitters of carbon dioxide. The divergent stances of the candidates regarding the environment could have significant consequences on this crucial issue.
Scientists warn that time is running out for countries to reduce pollution and avoid the most severe effects of climate change. Biden quickly rejoined the Paris Agreement after defeating Trump in 2020, while Trump plans to repeal climate regulations established by Biden's administration, which could have serious repercussions on greenhouse gas emissions.
In this scenario, the United States' position on climate change becomes a matter of vital importance. The results of the presidential elections could determine the course of national and international climate action in the coming years.
