One of President Donald Trump’s initial actions this week was to withdraw the United States from the Paris Agreement—a move he also made during his first presidency.
Just three days later, billionaire Michael Bloomberg stepped in to support the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC), ensuring it remains adequately funded despite the US cutting off its international climate contributions.
Bloomberg, the former New York City mayor, a UN special envoy on climate change, and the 16th richest person in the world according to Forbes, announced his funding pledge on January 23.
The UN climate organization relies on contributions from nearly 200 member nations, with the US—being the world’s largest economy—traditionally covering around 21% of the budget.
Simon Stiell, Executive Secretary of the UN Climate Change secretariat, expressed gratitude:
“We deeply appreciate the generous support from Bloomberg Philanthropies and the leadership shown by Mike Bloomberg. While government funding remains essential to our mission, contributions like this are vital in enabling the UN Climate Change secretariat to support countries in fulfilling their commitments under the Paris Agreement and advancing a low-emission, resilient, and safer future for everyone.”
Trump’s Withdrawal and Bloomberg’s Intervention, Round Two
On Monday, Trump signed an executive order withdrawing the US from the Paris Agreement and cutting international climate funding, among other actions, such as exiting the World Health Organization.
This marks Trump’s second departure from the global climate accord, following a similar withdrawal during his first term in 2017. Although the US rejoined under President Biden, this new withdrawal will take about a year to take effect, at which point the US will join Iran, Libya, and Yemen as the only UN member nations outside the agreement.
In response, Bloomberg Philanthropies, alongside other US-based climate action funders, pledged to cover the annual contributions the US would owe the UNFCCC. While specific funding details remain undisclosed, Bloomberg emphasized his commitment to ensuring the US continues to meet its global climate responsibilities.
“From 2017 to 2020, during a period of federal inaction, cities, states, businesses, and the public rose to the challenge to uphold our nation’s commitments—and now, we are ready to do it again,” Bloomberg stated.
He pointed to the increasing impact of climate disasters, such as the devastating wildfires in California, and highlighted the economic benefits of clean energy, noting falling prices and job growth in both Republican and Democratic states.
Bloomberg also pledged to collaborate with states, cities, and businesses to keep the US on track with its climate goals. He plans to work with subnational climate leaders to monitor and report on the country’s progress over the next four years.
“The American people remain determined to continue the fight against the devastating effects of climate change,” he affirmed.
Get it on Google Play
0 Comments