President-elect Donald Trump’s skepticism of climate action could bolster China’s international influence on climate finance as the U.S. steps back from its commitments.
Zoë Schlanger reports for The Atlantic.
In short:
- Trump’s expected withdrawal from climate agreements and funding could halt the momentum for climate finance among wealthy nations.
- China, already a leader in green tech, may use the U.S. absence to expand its influence and leadership at the COP29 talks in Baku.
- The U.S.’s retreat from climate obligations could further delay global emissions targets, as developing nations depend on climate finance for their energy transitions.
Key quote:
“We know perfectly well [Trump] won’t give another penny to climate finance, and that will neutralize whatever is agreed.”
— Joanna Depledge, fellow at the University of Cambridge and an expert on international climate negotiations
Why this matters:
The U.S.’s lack of commitment to climate funding may hinder global efforts to curb catastrophic warming by creating a funding gap for developing nations. Without significant financial backing from the U.S. and other wealthy nations, the world risks falling short of critical climate targets as developing countries struggle to meet green energy goals.
Related: Biden’s climate funding faces uncertain future under new administration
