President Joe Biden has announced a new goal to reduce U.S. greenhouse gas emissions by more than 60% by 2035, surpassing the previous target of cutting emissions by at least half by 2030. This ambitious plan is part of Biden's efforts to combat global warming and aims to achieve net-zero greenhouse gas emissions across the U.S. economy by 2050.
The United States is submitting this new target, known as a Nationally Determined Contribution, to the United Nations under the terms of the 2015 Paris climate agreement. The goal is to reduce net emissions by 61% to 66% below 2005 levels by 2035.
Biden highlighted his administration's commitment to the most robust climate agenda in American history, emphasizing ambitious goals such as deploying 30 gigawatts of offshore wind and conserving at least 30% of U.S. lands and waters by 2030. The administration has also implemented stringent standards to reduce air pollution from vehicles, power plants, and signed significant investments in climate and clean energy into law.
Despite Biden's efforts, President-elect Donald Trump has vowed to reverse much of Biden's climate work, aiming to prioritize fossil fuel production over environmental concerns. Trump is expected to withdraw the U.S. from the Paris climate accord and repeal parts of key environmental legislation.
Biden's senior adviser for international climate policy emphasized that American climate leadership extends beyond the presidency, with states and local governments playing a crucial role in advancing clean energy initiatives. The new 2035 target is seen as a guiding principle for leaders across the country to continue the fight against climate change.
Biden described the new goal as ambitious and highlighted the potential benefits, including job creation, affordable energy, cleaner air, water, and a healthier environment for all Americans. The proposal requires significant changes across various sectors, including power generation, transportation, buildings, agriculture, and industry, with a focus on increasing renewable energy sources and reducing emissions from fossil fuels.
The U.S. pledge also includes methane reductions of at least 35% from 2005 levels by 2035, as cutting methane emissions is crucial for mitigating global warming. The Nationally Determined Contribution is a key component of the Paris agreement, outlining each country's plan to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and limit temperature rise.
Biden's vision for a sustainable future involves unleashing American innovation and turning the challenge of climate change into an opportunity for transformative change. The administration is confident in the nation's ability to address this existential threat and create a better future for generations to come.
