The U.S. defended its commitment to the Paris Agreement at a major international climate hearing, but critics questioned its lack of accountability for global warming’s damage.
Karen Zraick reports for The New York Times.
In short:
- The U.S. representative called the Paris Agreement the best framework to address climate change but avoided clarifying future U.S. commitments.
- Small island nations and environmental groups criticized the U.S. for resisting legal accountability for emissions and failing to push stronger actions.
- The International Court of Justice hearings could influence global climate lawsuits, with over 100 countries participating.
Key quote:
“Let me be clear: These treaties are essential, but they cannot be a veil for inaction or a substitute for legal accountability.”
— Ralph Regenvanu, special envoy for climate change and environment for the island nation of Vanuatu
Why this matters:
Rising emissions disproportionately harm vulnerable nations, which demand stronger accountability from top polluters. Legal rulings could shape global climate policies, especially for nations like the U.S., which historically contributed most to greenhouse gas emissions.
