UN Climate Chief: countries push clean energy as U.S. backs out

Countries remain committed to clean energy and climate goals, despite U.S. President Donald Trump’s decision to withdraw from the Paris climate agreement, UN climate chief Simon Stiell said. Speaking in Brazil, he urged nations to strengthen their climate strategies ahead of COP30.

Speaking in Brasilia, Stiell, the executive secretary of the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change, addressed the ongoing transition toward clean energy, stating that global momentum remains strong even as the U.S., the world’s second-biggest emitter, pulls back from its commitments.

“A country may step back, but others are stepping forward,” Stiell said, highlighting the economic benefits of clean energy, including job creation, lower pollution, and reduced health costs. He argued that investment in renewables is not only an environmental necessity but also an economic opportunity.

The Paris Agreement, signed in 2015, was aimed at keeping global warming below 2°C compared to pre-industrial levels. A decade later, Stiell acknowledged that not all commitments have been met, urging world leaders to reevaluate their climate action plans and increase high-level engagement.

Trump’s decision to exit the agreement has fueled broader debates over climate policy. In Europe, green parties are losing ground amid rising concerns over energy prices and economic stability. Meanwhile, Trump’s return to office has led to a rollback of climate-focused policies, as he prioritizes domestic energy production and economic deregulation.

Despite political shifts, several countries have doubled down on clean energy investments. Nations participating in COP30, set for November, are expected to announce revised climate targets. Stiell stressed the need for stronger cooperation among major economies to ensure progress in global climate efforts.

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