The upcoming elections in the United States may significantly affect the country's role in overcoming the global climate crisis. As the United States is one of the world's largest carbon emitters, the policies of presidential candidates Kamala Harris and Donald Trump are in stark contrast, shaping the country's environmental future. This article examines both candidates' approaches to combating climate change, including their positions on renewable energy, electric cars, and international agreements.
Kamala Harris: Champion of Climate Action
Kamala Harris has long supported progressive climate policies. As a vice-presidential candidate, she was a major proponent of the Green New Deal, a broad plan to rapidly transition to a sustainable energy system. Harris envisions a future in which the United States is a leader in green technology, supporting clean energy initiatives and sustainable economic growth.
Environmental groups often laud Harris as a "proven climate champion." She has consistently supported policies promoting electric vehicles (EVs) and reducing pollution from coal-fired power plants, continuing President Biden's climate legacy. More than half of American adults say they trust Harris' ability to handle climate change, according to a poll by the Associated Press-NORC Center for Public Affairs Research
Donald Trump: Back to Fossil Fuel Propaganda
Former President Donald Trump has announced his intention to reverse many of the "radical climate policies" put in place by the Biden administration. During his previous term, Trump sought to roll back more than 100 environmental regulations, emphasizing economic growth over environmental protection. In campaign speeches, Trump called climate change a "hoax" and promised to increase fossil fuel production if re-elected Source: EPA
A recent AP-NORC poll found that 70% of respondents expressed skepticism about Trump's commitment to addressing climate change, highlighting a sharp gap in public trust between the two candidates on environmental issues
Electric vehicles and economic implications
While Harris has not released a new policy on electric vehicles, she has been an active supporter of clean transportation initiatives. In contrast, Trump criticized Biden's auto emissions rules, calling them a "mandate" for electric vehicles that could hurt the auto industry. Although his stance has softened recently, Trump remains focused on preserving traditional manufacturing jobs, which could mean eliminating current incentives for electric vehicles if he takes office
The Paris Agreement: A Fundamental Gap
Trump previously pulled the US out of the 2015 Paris climate accord, calling it unworkable and unfairly benefiting countries like China. If re-elected, he could repeat the move, which could further isolate the US from global climate efforts. Harris, on the other hand, supports the Paris Agreement as essential to curbing climate change and ensuring a sustainable future for future generations
The 2024 election could lead to dramatic changes in US climate policy. Kamala Harris represents a path to aggressive climate action and global cooperation, while Donald Trump favors a more conservative, economy-focused approach. As the world grapples with increasing climate impacts, the choice between the policies of these two candidates will determine not only the country's environmental future, but also its global standing.
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