The United States has announced it will cut carbon emissions by at least 50% below 2005 levels by the end of the decade, which is a significant and ambitious plan, and a somewhat welcome move given recent US policies against climate change prevention.
Climate pledges in the US have been turbulent recently, having joined the Paris Agreement, left it, rejoined it again, and now announcing new carbon emissions cuts which, if met, will be significant in the fight against climate change.
Vice President Kamala Harris said, "As a global community, it is imperative that we act quickly and together to confront this crisis. This will require innovation and collaboration around the world."
It is hoped that this will inspire or pressure other polluting countries to also take a stance.
President Biden has been vocal about environmental protection, particularly in the run-up to the election. This move provides a clear signal of intent from the US to take climate action. Nathaniel Keohane, from the US Environmental Defense Fund, said "By announcing a bold target of cutting emissions 50-52% below 2005 by the end of the decade, President Biden has met the moment and the urgency that the climate crisis demands. This target aligns with what the science says is necessary to put the world on the path to a safer climate, and vaults the US into the top tier of world leaders on climate ambition."
