As President Biden prepares to leave office, he announces a significant new goal for emission reductions, emphasizing hope for continued climate action at state and local levels.
Biden Sets Ambitious Climate Target as He Nears Exit from Office
Biden Sets Ambitious Climate Target as He Nears Exit from Office
Outgoing President aims for a 61% reduction in greenhouse gases by 2035, despite potential opposition from the incoming administration.
In a bold move before his term concludes, President Biden has unveiled an ambitious climate goal for the United States, aiming to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by at least 61% below 2005 levels by 2035. Despite the likelihood that this target will not be prioritized by incoming President Donald J. Trump, who has previously dismissed climate change as a "scam," Biden's administration believes that setting this target will inspire state and local governments to maintain their own efforts to combat climate change.
During a video address from the White House, Biden characterized his administration's climate initiatives as “the boldest climate agenda in American history,” highlighting the funding allocated to clean energy technologies and regulatory measures aimed at lowering pollution from industrial sectors. He expressed confidence in America’s continued advancement in climate technology and investment, stating, “American industry will keep inventing and keep investing.”
This new commitment marks a significant upgrade from the previously established goal of a 50% reduction in emissions by 2030, which Biden set in 2021. However, despite the positive trend in emissions reductions during his presidency, the U.S. is currently not on track to meet even this earlier benchmark. Scientists assert that achieving these targets is crucial for preventing drastic increases in global temperatures.
As Biden looks to the future, he remains optimistic that ongoing efforts at various levels of government and industry will convert the daunting challenge of climate change into a historic opportunity for transformation in the U.S. economy.
During a video address from the White House, Biden characterized his administration's climate initiatives as “the boldest climate agenda in American history,” highlighting the funding allocated to clean energy technologies and regulatory measures aimed at lowering pollution from industrial sectors. He expressed confidence in America’s continued advancement in climate technology and investment, stating, “American industry will keep inventing and keep investing.”
This new commitment marks a significant upgrade from the previously established goal of a 50% reduction in emissions by 2030, which Biden set in 2021. However, despite the positive trend in emissions reductions during his presidency, the U.S. is currently not on track to meet even this earlier benchmark. Scientists assert that achieving these targets is crucial for preventing drastic increases in global temperatures.
As Biden looks to the future, he remains optimistic that ongoing efforts at various levels of government and industry will convert the daunting challenge of climate change into a historic opportunity for transformation in the U.S. economy.
