U.S. Formally Withdraws from UNFCCC, Signaling a Major Shift in Global Climate Change Cooperation
In a significant blow to international climate efforts, U.S. President Donald Trump has announced the United States' withdrawal from the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC). The UNFCCC is the parent treaty for major agreements like the Paris Accord and the Kyoto Protocol. The White House described the treaty as "contrary to the interests of the United States." This move has been widely condemned by the European Union and other global partners, who have vowed to continue tackling the climate crisis despite the exit of the world's second-largest emitter.
Key Points
- The UNFCCC was adopted in 1992 as a global pact to cooperate on reducing greenhouse gas emissions.
- The U.S. exit is part of a larger withdrawal from 66 global organizations and treaties.
- Climate experts warn that the absence of the U.S. will significantly hinder global climate action and funding for developing nations.
- The EU has reaffirmed its commitment to the 1992 treaty's goals.
Exam Facts
- UNFCCC adopted in 1992.
- The U.S. is the world's second-largest emitter of greenhouse gases.
- 66 global organizations were targeted for withdrawal.
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