The Paris Agreement was a landmark climate accord signed by nearly 200 nations in 2015, with the aim of limiting global warming to no more than 2°C above pre-industrial levels – and ideally no more than 1.5°C. The United States was among the signatories of this agreement, and it set an initial target of reducing greenhouse gas emissions by 26-28% below 2005 levels by 2025.
This goal, known as the US Paris Agreement Initial Target, was a major step forward in the fight against climate change. It represented a significant reduction in the country`s carbon footprint, and signaled a commitment to taking action in line with the scientific consensus on the need to limit global warming.
However, in 2017, the US announced its intention to withdraw from the Paris Agreement, citing the perceived economic and job losses associated with meeting the emissions reduction targets. Though the withdrawal process was completed in 2020, the US re-entered the Agreement earlier this year under the new Biden administration.
Now, with renewed commitment to the Paris Agreement, the US has the opportunity to work towards meeting its initial target. While progress towards reducing emissions has been made in the years since the target was set, there is still much work to be done.
In order to reach the goal of reducing emissions by 26-28% below 2005 levels by 2025, the US must take a multi-faceted approach. This could include implementing policies to reduce emissions from transportation, industry, and electricity generation, and investing in renewable energy and energy efficiency measures. Additionally, the US could work with other countries to share best practices and develop strategies for meeting the targets set by the Paris Agreement.
It is worth noting that meeting the US Paris Agreement Initial Target is just the first step in the fight against climate change. In order to limit global warming to the 2°C or 1.5°C goal set by the Paris Agreement, even more ambitious action will need to be taken in coming years. However, by committing to its initial target, the US has signaled that it is ready to take action and do its part in the global effort to combat climate change.