Biden Admin Plans for Massive Emissions Reduction

With Biden promising a steep 60% drop in greenhouse gas emissions by 2035, the stage is set for a significant shift in climate policy as Trump readies his return to the White House.

At a Glance

The U.S. aims to reduce emissions by 61-66% from 2005 levels by 2035 under the Paris Agreement.
The U.S. surpassed its 2020 emissions target and is on track for 2030 due to recent legislation.
States led by the U.S. Climate Alliance aim for a 60% reduction by 2035, anticipating federal reversals.
Criticism arises over lacking fossil fuel phase-out deadlines and commitments to poorer nations.

Biden’s Emissions Plans

President Joe Biden’s administration has expressed a commitment for the United States to cut greenhouse gas emissions by more than 60% by 2035 as part of efforts to uphold the Paris Agreement. This announcement aligns with the administration’s aims for net zero emissions by 2050.

The pledge is backed by the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law and the Inflation Reduction Act, which have contributed to surpassing the 2020 emissions reduction goal and setting the path towards the 2030 target.

Challenges and Criticism

Despite setting ambitious climate goals, the U.S. faces criticism over its lack of deadlines for phasing out fossil fuels and insufficient financial support for developing nations. Additionally, the entry of President-elect Trump, who plans to roll back parts of the Inflation Reduction Act, raises questions about the future of these initiatives. He has reportedly promised to undo many of Biden’s climate initiatives with executive actions.

President Joe Biden is pledging to cut U.S. greenhouse gas emissions by more than 60% by 2035.https://t.co/BK36m725BO

— ABC 6 News – KAAL TV (@ABC6NEWS) December 19, 2024

The Road Ahead

As federal policies face potential reversals, it is unclear whether Biden’s goals will remain intact following his departure. With a collective effort, New York Governor Kathy Hochul, a co-chair of the U.S. Climate Alliance, expressed optimism about the climate agenda: “President Biden’s bold leadership is keeping us on a path to achieve a clean energy economy, and together, the country’s climate-leading governors will carry the torch forward.”