January 21,2025

​

The U.S. withdrawal from the Paris Agreement is a deeply concerning development that undermines global efforts to combat the climate crisis and jeopardizes the future of our planet. This decision isolates the United States from the international community and abdicates our responsibility to address a crisis that disproportionately impacts vulnerable communities around the world and one that this nation helped to create.

​

For those unfamiliar with the Paris Agreement, it is a landmark international accord adopted in 2015 to address climate change. The agreement unites nearly every nation in the world in a common effort to limit global warming to well below 2 degrees Celsius above pre-industrial levels, with a goal of pursuing efforts to limit the increase to 1.5 degrees Celsius by 2030. The Paris Agreement also focuses on improving countries' ability to adapt to the impacts of climate change and encouraging financial investments in projects and initiatives that support low greenhouse gas emissions and climate-resilient development.

The United States' participation in the Paris Agreement, while not always constructive, showed at least a willingness to work collaboratively with other nations to establish agreements and systems of accountability. This ensured that all countries, particularly those that have historically contributed the most to the climate crisis, including us, do their/our part to reduce emissions and address the impacts of climate change.

​

This withdrawal is particularly detrimental because the climate crisis is a global challenge that requires collective action. The United States, as the largest cumulative emitter of greenhouse gases, has a crucial role to play in reducing emissions and supporting vulnerable communities in adapting to climate impacts. By withdrawing from the Paris Agreement, the U.S. undermines its credibility as a global leader and jeopardizes the health and well-being of communities both domestically and internationally.

​

However, despite this setback, we at the U.S. Climate Action Network remain steadfast in our commitment to addressing the climate crisis. We will continue to:

• Advocate for bold climate solutions: We will push for ambitious action at the local, state, and national levels to reduce emissions, transition to clean energy, and build climate resilience.

• Support frontline communities: We will prioritize the needs and voices of frontline communities who are disproportionately impacted by the climate crisis, helping them to have the resources and support they need to adapt, thrive, and lead transformative change in their communities.

• Work tirelessly towards a just and sustainable future for all: We will continue to collaborate with members, partners and allies across the country and around the world to build a just and sustainable future where everyone can thrive in a healthy environment.

​

We are an inclusive, relationship-centered network that many have described as a movement home, and we invite you to join us in this critical fight for climate justice. Together, we can overcome any setbacks and build a better future for all.

 

Contact:

Dr. Ife Kilimanjaro, Executive Director or Carrie Clayton, Deputy Director

operations@usclimatenetwork.org