America exits Paris climate pact again disrupting global efforts

The United States has once again exited the Paris Agreement under the leadership of President Donald Trump, reigniting debates about the global and domestic ramifications of such a decision.

This withdrawal, coming at a time when the planet is already grappling with the consequences of surpassing the critical threshold of 1.5 degrees Celsius of global warming, has profound implications for international climate action and America’s role in addressing the climate crisis.

Landmark international accord

The Paris Agreement, adopted in 2015, is a landmark international accord aimed at combating climate change. Nearly 200 countries pledged to limit global warming to “well below” 2 degrees Celsius above pre-industrial levels, with a concerted effort to cap it at 1.5 degrees.

This agreement provided a framework for nations to set their own greenhouse gas reduction goals, review them every five years, and mobilise financial and technological support for climate mitigation and adaptation.

While the commitments were voluntary and non-binding, the agreement fostered a very important global cooperation, with several key nations vying to lead in the transition to a low-carbon future.

The United States, under the Obama administration, played a pivotal role in crafting the Paris Agreement, committing to significant emissions reductions. However, President Trump’s initial decision to withdraw from the agreement in 2017, followed by his decision to exit it again during his second term, has disrupted global efforts to combat the climate crisis.

Far-reaching consequences

The implications of the US withdrawal from the Paris Agreement are far-reaching, affecting international diplomacy, global climate initiatives, and the country’s domestic agenda.

The United States is the world’s second-largest emitter of greenhouse gases and has historically contributed the most to cumulative emissions. Its absence from the Paris Agreement creates a leadership vacuum, weakening the multilateral framework needed to tackle a global issue of immense importance like climate change.

Other countries may be less inclined to enhance their commitments, pointing to America’s abdication of responsibility as a justification for inaction. China, the world’s largest emitter, could leverage this opportunity to dominate climate leadership, further shifting geopolitical balances.

The clean energy sector represents a significant economic opportunity, with global investments in renewable energy surpassing $2 trillion in 2024 alone. By doubling down on fossil fuels and neglecting green technologies, the US risks falling behind in the race to lead the clean energy economy.

States and industries reliant on fossil fuels may experience short-term gains, but the long-term costs — including stranded assets and increased vulnerability to global market shifts — are likely to outweigh these benefits.

Climate disasters, including wildfires, hurricanes, and floods, have intensified due to global warming. The absence of federal action to curb emissions means these disasters will grow more frequent and severe, disproportionately affecting vulnerable communities both within the US and globally.

By stepping away from international climate commitments, the US forfeits its ability to influence global emissions, putting Americans at greater risk from transboundary climate impacts.

Repeatedly entering and exiting international agreements damages the US' reputation as a reliable partner of global governance structure. Allies and adversaries alike may view the country’s commitments as unstable and contingent on domestic politics, undermining trust in its leadership on other global issues.

The Paris Agreement emphasises financial and technical support for developing countries, which are often the hardest hit by climate change despite contributing the least to the problem. The US withdrawal could reduce funding for initiatives like the Green Climate Fund, hindering these nations’ ability to adapt to and mitigate climate impacts.

Though Trump’s withdrawal delivers a symbolic and practical blow to climate efforts, the absence of US negotiators under Trump might actually benefit international talks, allowing other nations to advance agreements without obstruction.

Global investment in clean energy continues to outpace fossil fuels, and major economies like China and the EU remain committed to the Paris goals, showing that the withdrawal, while damaging, cannot derail global climate action entirely.

Despite the federal government’s retreat, the momentum for climate action in the United States remains strong at the state, local, and to some extent at the corporate levels. Subnational actors and private enterprises have demonstrated resilience and innovation, continuing to advance climate goals even in the absence of federal leadership.

Coalitions like the US Climate Alliance, representing over half the US economy, remain committed to achieving the Paris Agreement’s goals. Cities are investing in renewable energy, adopting climate-resilient infrastructure, and collaborating through networks like C40 Cities.

Businesses recognise the economic opportunities of transitioning to a low-carbon economy. Companies like Apple and Tesla are spearheading efforts to reduce emissions, develop green technologies, and promote sustainable practices.

Grass roots organisations and Indigenous leaders continue to advocate for climate justice, emphasising the need for equitable and inclusive solutions. Their work highlights the interconnectedness of environmental sustainability and social justice.

While President Trump’s decision to withdraw from the Paris Agreement represents a significant setback, it does not mark the end of climate action. The international community needs to reaffirm its commitment to the agreement and find ways to accelerate progress despite the US absence.