United States: Effective Climate Policy - For Now
Over the past few years, the United States has given significant political emphasis on policies geared toward climate and sustainability issues. These initiatives reflect a broad commitment to addressing climate change through legislative action and collaborative leadership. In 2021, the Biden administration committed the U.S. to reduce its total greenhouse gas emissions by at least 50% by 2030 compared to 2005 levels. That same year, the administration established a goal for 50% of new passenger vehicles sold to be zero-emission by 2030. In 2022, the Inflation Reduction Act (IRA), the most comprehensive climate legislation in U.S. history, was signed into law. It includes policies designed to directly address climate change with incentives for clean energy, electric vehicles, and environmental justice initiatives. The IRA has set a positive trajectory for the country to support clean technologies and incentivize households and companies to reduce carbon emissions.
Other significant milestones include tackling super pollutants like hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs), scaling up carbon removal practices, and ramping up clean electricity standards (to reach 100% clean electricity by 2035). In terms of foreign policy, the United States has focused on addressing climate change through several measures, such as by rejoining the Paris Agreement — which aims to keep global warming under 2°C, ideally limiting the increase to 1.5°C — and committing to mobilize USD 11.4 billion annually by 2024 for climate aid to developing countries. The fight against climate change in the U.S. is also concentrated at the sub-national level. Many states have adopted policies to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and promote clean energy, often without strong federal climate policy. These include emissions reduction targets, climate action plans, carbon pricing programs, renewable portfolio standards, and transportation policies.
Despite the significance of all these measures, climate change remains a contentious issue in the United States. The upcoming presidential elections in November this year could significantly shape the future of climate policies. The outcome of the elections could determine whether the country continues to support the IRA, uphold the Paris Agreement, aim for higher emissions reduction, or face potential challenges. If a Republican wins the election, the Inflation Reduction Act (IRA) and other climate policies may face significant challenges. Although full repeal of the IRA is unlikely, a divided Congress under a Republican president could weaken it. Additionally, the U.S. might again withdraw from the Paris Agreement.
Regardless of the election outcome, the United States will continue to see changes in environmental regulations, with a focus on addressing air pollution, water quality, and biodiversity. In the long run, the decrease in clean energy costs and the implementation of specific sustainable practices, rather than policy, will steer the necessary energy and climate transition. The U.S. will continue to address environmental issues through a combination of regulatory measures, public-private partnerships, and international cooperation, regardless of what politicians decide to do or not do.
Several key policies and initiatives reflect the United States' commitment to addressing climate change. These policies, ranging from foundational legislation to recent initiatives, have the potential to significantly shape the country's environmental trajectory.
The Clean Air Act, Clean Water Act, and Endangered Species Act: foundational policies passed in the 1970s that have helped address environmental issues, including climate change, with ongoing implementation and updates over time.
The Inflation Reduction Act (IRA): the largest climate legislation in US history, investing hundreds of billions of dollars in clean energy, electric vehicles, and environmental justice.
The Methane Action Plan: a program focused on reducing emissions of methane and other greenhouse gases (GHGs) from the oil and gas sector.
Several Climate Change Regulatory Actions and Initiatives: the administration is finalizing rules to cut emissions in major sectors like transport and power. Specific actions around these themes are expected soon: High Global Warming Chemicals, Transportation/Mobile Sources, Greenhouse Gas Reporting, and more.
In conclusion, the United States has recently committed to addressing climate change through various legislative measures and initiatives. The IRA, in particular, has been instrumental in allowing for significant investments in clean energy, electric vehicles, and environmental justice. Regardless of future political shifts, the United States' trajectory toward a more sustainable future is evident. However, the upcoming 2024 presidential elections could influence the pace and direction of these environmental policies. Moving forward, the country will likely continue to leverage regulatory measures, public-private partnerships, and international cooperation to navigate the complexities of climate change and sustainability.