Us Paris Agreement 2020

The Paris Agreement is a landmark international treaty on climate change, adopted in 2015 by 196 parties. Its goal is to limit global warming to well below 2 degrees Celsius, preferably to 1.5 degrees Celsius, compared to pre-industrial levels. The agreement requires each participating country to set and regularly report on their own climate change targets and actions.

However, in November 2019, the United States formally notified the United Nations of its intention to withdraw from the Paris Agreement. The withdrawal became effective on November 4, 2020, the day after the U.S. presidential election. This means that the U.S. will no longer be bound by the climate commitments made under the Paris Agreement.

Many environmentalists, scientists, and world leaders have criticized the U.S.`s withdrawal from the Paris Agreement, saying that it undermines global efforts to tackle climate change. They argue that the U.S., as one of the largest emitters of greenhouse gases, has a responsibility to lead the way in reducing emissions and transitioning to a low-carbon economy.

Despite the U.S. withdrawal, many states, cities, and businesses in the country have pledged to continue their efforts to address climate change. For example, governors of 25 U.S. states have formed the U.S. Climate Alliance, committing to upholding the Paris Agreement`s goals. In addition, over 1,000 U.S. businesses, including major corporations such as Apple and Google, have pledged to reduce their carbon footprint and transition to renewable energy.

The upcoming year, 2021, will mark a critical juncture in global efforts to address climate change. The United Nations Climate Change Conference, also known as COP26, is scheduled to take place in Glasgow, Scotland, in November 2021. This conference will be an opportunity for world leaders to come together and recommit to the Paris Agreement`s goals. It will also be a chance for the U.S. to rejoin the international community in the fight against climate change, should a new administration choose to do so.

In conclusion, the U.S. withdrawal from the Paris Agreement in 2020 raises significant concerns about the country`s commitment to addressing climate change. However, many states, cities, and businesses in the U.S. have pledged to continue their efforts to reduce emissions and transition to renewable energy. The upcoming COP26 conference in 2021 presents an opportunity for the global community to come together and renew their commitment to the Paris Agreement`s goals.