Biden climate goal/ U.S. emissions target 2035/ Trump climate reversal/ Paris Agreement U.S. update/ methane emissions cut/ WASHINGTON/ Newslooks/ J. Mansour/ Morning Edition/ President Joe Biden announced an ambitious pledge to cut U.S. greenhouse gas emissions by 61%-66% by 2035, reinforcing his climate legacy ahead of President-elect Donald Trump’s inauguration. The goal aligns with the U.S. commitment to net-zero emissions by 2050.
Biden’s Final Climate Push: Quick Looks
- New Climate Goal: Biden sets a target to slash U.S. emissions by over 60% by 2035.
- UN Submission: The updated Nationally Determined Contribution (NDC) reinforces U.S. commitment to the Paris Agreement.
- Trump’s Plans: President-elect Trump vows to reverse climate policies, promoting fossil fuel expansion.
- States Lead the Charge: Biden aides emphasize state and local leadership in maintaining progress.
- Legacy Investments: Biden highlights achievements like clean energy incentives and pollution standards.
Biden Pledges 60% Emissions Cut by 2035 as He Exits World Stage
Deep Look
As his presidency nears its conclusion, President Joe Biden announced a sweeping climate commitment to reduce U.S. greenhouse gas emissions by 61%-66% by 2035. This bold pledge aims to solidify his environmental legacy and sustain momentum in the fight against climate change, even as President-elect Donald Trump prepares to reverse much of Biden’s climate agenda.
The new target, submitted as part of the United States’ updated Nationally Determined Contribution (NDC) under the 2015 Paris Agreement, builds on an earlier goal to cut emissions by 50% by 2030.
A Transformative Climate Vision
Biden’s ambitious climate roadmap involves cutting emissions across key sectors of the economy, including power generation, transportation, agriculture, and industry. Investments in renewable energy sources like wind and solar power are central to the strategy, along with efforts to curtail fossil fuel reliance.
In his remarks, Biden emphasized the economic and environmental benefits of the plan, stating it would create “thousands of well-paying jobs, more affordable energy, and a healthier environment.”
The plan also includes a commitment to reduce methane emissions by at least 35% by 2035. Methane, a potent greenhouse gas, offers a critical opportunity for immediate impact on global warming.
Trump’s Contrasting Vision
President-elect Donald Trump, who will assume office in January, has vowed to dismantle many of Biden’s climate initiatives. Trump has pledged to withdraw from the Paris Agreement and reduce support for clean energy projects, focusing instead on bolstering fossil fuel production.
Trump has shifted his stance on climate change, no longer calling it a “hoax” but advocating for what he calls “energy dominance.” He has also targeted subsidies for electric vehicles and offshore wind projects, citing concerns about federal spending.
Despite Trump’s plans, Biden’s senior climate adviser, John Podesta, expressed confidence in continued progress.
“American climate leadership goes beyond the Oval Office,” Podesta said, emphasizing the role of cities and states in advancing clean energy efforts.
A Legacy of Climate Action
Biden has made climate change a cornerstone of his presidency, spearheading legislation and policies aimed at reducing carbon emissions. Key achievements include:
- Inflation Reduction Act: Historic investments in clean energy and climate resilience.
- Pollution Standards: Stricter regulations on vehicles and power plants to cut emissions.
- Offshore Wind Development: A goal of deploying 30 gigawatts of offshore wind power by 2030.
- Land and Water Conservation: Commitments to conserve 30% of U.S. lands and waters by 2030.
Challenges Ahead
Biden’s pledge faces significant hurdles, both political and logistical. Trump’s presidency is likely to disrupt federal climate policies, with his administration favoring deregulation and increased fossil fuel use.
However, Biden’s allies argue that progress can persist through state-level initiatives and private-sector innovation. Cities like Phoenix and Pittsburgh, and states like California, are expected to continue leading the charge on renewable energy and emissions reductions.
Podesta dismissed claims of “wishful thinking,” asserting, “The work to contain climate change will continue with commitment and passion across the United States.”
Global Context
Biden’s updated emissions target aligns with the goals of the Paris Agreement, which seeks to limit global temperature increases to 1.5 degrees Celsius above pre-industrial levels. The U.S. submission follows updated NDCs from countries like Brazil, the U.K., and the UAE, with a February 2025 deadline for the next round of commitments.
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