5 politicians who changed climate policy

Top 5 politicians who changed climate policy and tackled CO2 emissions

The global fight against climate change has led to a growing recognition of the need for urgent action. Some politicians have risen to this challenge by leading innovative policies and initiatives aimed at reducing CO2 emissions and mitigating the effects of climate change. Below, we delve into the lives and work of five influential politicians who not only shaped climate policy, but also demonstrated how political leadership can make a significant difference to the well-being of our planet and humanity.

1. Angela Merkel – Chancellor for Climate Affairs (Germany)

Angela Merkel, the former chancellor of Germany, is widely known for her commitment to the fight against climate change. Merkel, a physicist by training, has used her scientific background to advance ambitious climate goals during her tenure. It played a key role in the 2015 Paris Agreement, which united countries in the fight against climate change.

For a deeper understanding of global climate policy and the actions of leaders, you can learn more at the United Nations Climate Action website.

Notable work: Merkel's Energiewende policy aimed at Germany's transition to renewable energy has been a major success, positioning Germany as a world leader in clean energy.

Key achievements: Under her leadership, Germany has significantly reduced CO2 emissions, and by 2020 the country has already reduced greenhouse gas emissions by more than 35% compared to 1990 levels.

Her take: "Climate change is one of the greatest challenges of our time, and we must confront it both innovatively and decisively."

2. Jacinda Ardern - a global beacon of green leadership (New Zealand)

Jacinda Ardern championed progressive climate policies during her tenure as Prime Minister of New Zealand. In 2019, the Ardern government passed legislation requiring New Zealand to become carbon neutral by 2050.

Notable work: The Ardern government has invested NZ$14 billion (US$8.4 billion) in sustainable transport systems, including nationwide incentives for electric cars and public transport upgrades.

Key achievements: New Zealand is now on track to meet its net zero target by 2050, thanks to significant reductions in emissions from agriculture and transport.

Her take: "We need to act now, not tomorrow, if we want to ensure the health of our planet for future generations."

3. Barack Obama is an environmentalist (USA)

As the 44th president of the United States, Barack Obama has put environmental issues at the center of his administration's agenda. His Clean Power Plan set ambitious targets for reducing CO2 emissions from power plants, marking the first-ever national carbon pollution standards.

Notable work: The Obama administration also committed the U.S. to the Paris Climate Agreement, strengthening America's role in global climate action.

Key achievements: His policies resulted in a 32% reduction in CO2 emissions in the US energy sector from 2005 levels by 2030.

His opinion: "No challenge poses a greater threat to future generations than climate change."

4. Emmanuel Macron – Europe's leading "green transition" (France)

President Emmanuel Macron has been one of Europe's most active leaders on climate action, especially since the US withdrew from the Paris Agreement under President Trump. In 2017, Macron launched the One Planet Summit, bringing together world leaders, companies and organizations to discuss climate finance and environmental solutions.

Notable work: Macron's government has pledged 100 billion euros ($107 billion) for France's green transition, focusing on green energy, electric cars and sustainable agriculture.

Key achievements: France has set a target of achieving carbon neutrality by 2050 and plans to eliminate CO2 emissions from the transport sector by 2035.

His point: "We don't have Planet B. We have to act now for the future."

5. Greta Thunberg – Voice of a generation (Sweden)

Although not a politician in the traditional sense, Greta Thunberg's impact on global climate policy has been monumental. Her climate strikes have inspired millions of young activists around the world and pushed politicians to take bolder steps on climate issues.

Notable work: Thunberg's activism has pushed world leaders to rethink their approach to climate policy, including urging them to heed scientific warnings about CO2 emissions.

Key achievements: Thunberg's influence led the European Union to commit €1 trillion to becoming the first climate-neutral continent by 2050.

Her point: “I want you to act like your house is on fire. Because it is."

Why thesepromoting sustainable practices shows how political will can drive environmental progress. However, their struggle is far from over. As the planet continues to warm and CO2 levels rise, these leaders – along with new voices – must continue their efforts to create a livable planet for future generations.

Personal opinion

As the effects of climate change become more apparent, it is clear that strong leadership is essential to drive climate action. Each of these figures, from Merkel's scientific pragmatism to Thunberg's fearless activism, represents a unique approach to tackling the climate crisis. However, governments and corporations must continue to work together to ensure that these efforts are not undone. Without sustained political courage and public support, the fight against the risks of climate change becomes insurmountable.