America’s pullout from the Paris deal is definitely a bad news for countries in the firing line or directly being the victim of global warming and climate change. Bangladesh is one such country experiencing severe negative changes in its climactic patterns. As one of the largest recipients of global climate fund Bangladesh is now likely to suffer from funding shortage of climate change related projects. America was so far leading the global consortium engaged in addressing climate change issues and funding.
The US notification of leaving Paris climate agreement came at a time when vast areas of southern Europe sweltered in a heat wave early this weak claiming several lives and damaging billions of dollars worth of crops to foretaste the worse in coming decades. Scientists warned deaths due to extreme weather in Europe could increase fifty-fold from an estimated 3,000 per year recently to 152,000 by the end of this century – if global warming are not reined in. The State Department however said the US was still committed to reducing its greenhouse gas emissions and remain engaged with the international community in combating climate threats.
Climate experts however fear America’s pulling-out would artificially create a polarisation between the USA and the rest of the world. Domestically it is already creating divisions and disruptions within America. Nevertheless, the ray of optimism now lies with American people, not in the hands of their whimsical president. Americans still believe despite the withdrawal, US carbon emissions will continue to drop as the bulk of its energy production is now powered by gas, not by coal.
From a corporate perspective, Mr. Trump action is poised to isolate many American run global business houses. So one of the strongest voices in favour in the Paris deal is undeniably coming from corporate America. What is heartening, leaders of big US business houses such as Google, Apple and major fossil fuel producers are calling on Mr. Trump to stick to the Paris climate deal but like many of his ignorant refusals he is continuing to ignore them.
The picture, however, is not all too bleak since China has rapidly re-affirmed its commitment to the Paris accord with a fresh pledge of cooperation to work with EU leaders to cut carbon emissions. India too. So more than getting frustrated it is important for world leaders to collectively gather for battling the menaces of climate change without the US. That said – it is least likely that Mr. Trump would come to his good senses any time soon.
