On January 27, 2021, President Joe Biden declared global warming an “existential threat to humanity,” emphasizing the need for immediate action. Speaking at the White House, Biden stated, “We have already waited too long.
We see it with our own eyes, we feel it in our bones. It’s time to act.”
His administration’s executive orders aim to steer the United States, the world’s second-largest polluter, toward net-zero emissions by 2050, reversing the environmental policy rollbacks of the Trump era.
Key Policy Initiatives
Biden’s orders include sweeping measures to transform the US’s environmental landscape:
- Eliminating Fossil Fuel Subsidies: Ending financial support for fossil fuel industries to shift focus to cleaner energy sources.
- Expanding Offshore Wind Energy: Doubling the capacity of offshore wind projects to bolster renewable energy production.
- Conserving Federal Lands and Oceans: Committing to protect at least 30% of federal lands and waters by 2030 to preserve biodiversity.
- Transitioning to Electric Vehicles: Replacing the government’s fleet of 650,000 cars and trucks with electric vehicles to reduce emissions.
Unprecedented Collaboration Required
David Waskow, director of the climate initiative at the World Resources Institute, underscored the need for an “all-in” approach.
He told RFI that achieving Biden’s climate goals requires collaboration across federal departments, including energy, agriculture, transport, trade, and finance, as well as engagement from state and local governments.
With Democrats controlling both houses of Congress, there is optimism that these policies will gain legislative support.
Economic Opportunities and Industry Pushback
While Biden’s initiatives are expected to face resistance from fossil fuel industries, they are also projected to create significant economic benefits.
Waskow highlighted that renewable energy expansion and vehicle electrification could drive job creation and economic growth.
He noted, “We’ve seen so much more evidence that taking action on climate change actually brings enormous economic benefits,” citing public support for green policies as shown in recent polls.
Reclaiming Global Climate Leadership
To reestablish the US as a leader in global climate action, Biden announced plans to host an international climate summit on Earth Day, April 22, 2021.
This move aims to strengthen transatlantic partnerships and address global climate challenges, though trade issues may complicate cooperation with allies like the European Union.
Broader Implications
Biden’s aggressive climate agenda signals a pivotal shift for the US, aligning domestic policy with global efforts to combat climate change.
The focus on renewables, conservation, and electrification could position the US as a model for sustainable development, while also addressing the economic and environmental impacts of climate inaction.
