Guilbeault says it’s ‘deplorable’ Trump will pull out of Paris Agreement as California burns
Canada’s Environment and Climate Change Minister Steven Guilbeault emphasized the urgent need for global action to combat climate change, regardless of President Donald Trump’s stance on the issue in his second term. Guilbeault expressed disappointment at Trump’s decision to withdraw from the Paris Agreement for a second time, particularly in light of the devastating wildfires ravaging California.
As the second-largest greenhouse gas polluter in the world, the United States plays a significant role in global emissions. Trump’s announcement to exit the Paris Agreement, a treaty aimed at mitigating the effects of climate change, would align the U.S. with only a handful of countries outside the pact.
The Paris Agreement, which Canada ratified in 2016, sets ambitious targets to limit the rise in global temperatures to below 2 degrees Celsius above pre-industrial levels. Meeting these goals requires substantial reductions in emissions by 2030 and beyond.
In addition to withdrawing from the global climate treaty, Trump also pledged to reverse clean energy investments, including electric vehicle mandates. This decision could impact Canada’s efforts to boost electric vehicle manufacturing and phase out gas-powered cars by 2035.
Energy and Natural Resources Minister Jonathan Wilkinson acknowledged the potential implications of Trump’s actions on Canada’s clean energy initiatives. However, he highlighted the opportunities for collaboration with states like California, which remain committed to advancing clean energy technologies.
Despite the challenges posed by the Trump administration’s climate policies, Canada remains steadfast in its commitment to combatting climate change. Guilbeault emphasized that Canada’s regulations and initiatives can progress independently of U.S. policies, emphasizing the importance of taking decisive action to address environmental concerns.
Leading figures in Canada, including potential Liberal leadership candidate Mark Carney, underscored the importance of advancing climate policies and ensuring the country’s competitiveness in a changing global landscape. While the U.S. political climate may fluctuate, Canada’s focus on sustainable practices and environmental stewardship remains unwavering.
In conclusion, Canada continues to prioritize environmental sustainability and climate action, regardless of external political developments. By staying committed to reducing emissions, investing in clean technologies, and collaborating with like-minded partners, Canada aims to lead by example in the global fight against climate change.
