WASHINGTON D.C. (December 19, 2024) – Today the U.S. government announced a new climate commitment under the Paris Agreement, known as a nationally determined contribution (NDC). The plan includes a target to cut greenhouse gas emissions 61 to 66% below 2005 levels by 2035. 

If President Trump follows through with his intention to withdraw from the Paris Agreement, the United States would no longer be obligated to strive towards this new target. However, the NDC will serve as an important marker for non-federal actors and future U.S. administrations.

The following is a statement from Debbie Weyl, WRI US Acting Director:

“The United States’ new climate commitment offers a clear path forward for states, cities, businesses, and other leaders dedicated to ramping up action over the next four years. Even though the Trump administration may not lift a finger to deliver on this plan, it sets a north star for what the U.S. should be aiming for and could help guide the federal government’s priorities once Trump leaves office in 2029.  

“The 2035 emissions reduction target is at the lower bound of what the science demands and yet it is close to the upper bound of what is realistic if nearly every available policy lever were pulled. Assertive action by states and cities will be essential to achieving this goal.  

“The United States needs to swiftly expand renewable energy and electric vehicles, modernize the electric grid, and decarbonize heavy industry. Transitioning to a clean energy economy can create millions of good jobs, revitalize middle America and boost U.S. competitiveness globally.

“The devastating climate disasters we’ve seen in recent months are a stark reminder that all actors in the United States must do far more to protect communities, infrastructure and food security from floods, wildfires, droughts and rising seas. To safeguard our future, we will need to significantly increase investments to boost resilience in the face of climate impacts that will continue to get worse. The American people deserve nothing less.”