Next Steps After Trump Withdraws US from Paris Climate Accord.

President Trump decided to withdraw the U.S. from the Paris Climate Accord on Thursday. Despite this anticipated announcement, U.S. policymakers and key opinion leaders have voiced disappointment. The international stage also has lamented the lack of unity necessary for effective climate action. 

President Trump officially stating his intention to withdraw from the Paris Climate Accord.

Source: China Daily 

If the news has you feeling a bit lost or angry - we understand. But, be assured, the battle against climate change will endure. Now, it's more important than ever to stay committed. 

Greenpeace made it clear, the fight against climate change continues #wewillmoveahead

Source: Twitter

--  What Can I Do?! --

Countries and leaders need to hear your support for their commitments to fight climate change. We want to avoid others backing out the Paris Climate Agreement and encourage leaders to double-down their efforts. 

Use social media to show your support for climate efforts. Join the conservation by sharing a 'green'-related post, giving a thumbs-up on pro-climate policies, and using hashtags like #wewillmoveahead. 

NGOs, think tanks and research institutes around the world will need to fill a vacuum of funding and research for climate activities. 

Let them know their work is valued by staying engaged: attend events, share their research, donate (when possible), and volunteer! 

Human activities exacerbate climate change and policy decisions are only one part of the battle. Now is the time to take the gradual steps to live a greener life. Small changes DO make a difference. 

Start today: use a reusable water bottle, take public transportation or do a bike share instead of cabbing/didi-ing/driving, and buy local. 

-- What’s Next for Climate Relations --

Without U.S.’s proactive policies to curb their high carbon emissions, lowering the global temperature will be difficult - but not impossible. Some U.S. states, like California, and businesses, like Google, have reaffirmed support for climate action regardless of the U.S. position on the Paris Climate Accord. 

But let’s also remember: nearly 200 countries around the world recognize climate change and are still in the Paris Climate Accord. See the graphic from The Guardian below to understand the global breakdown of emissions. 

Percentage of Global Emissions by country. 

Source: The Guardian

International climate leadership is already being undertaken by Asia and Europe. China has repeatedly stated and demonstrated readiness for climate leadership, as recently seen in Sino-German cooperation on electric vehicles. 

On Thursday in Germany, Chinese Premier Li Keqiang reassured: 

“China is one of the first countries to ratify the Paris Pact and we will stick to the commitment for sure.” 

German Chancellor and Chinese Premier Li Keqiang had a very productive meeting in Germany this week. 

Source: China Daily 

Here at GEI, we are unwavering in our commitment to climate change and sustainable development initiatives. 

We look forward to opportunities to work with local and international partners - and YOU - for a sustainable future. 

For GEI’s full, official statement on international climate diplomacy in light of the U.S. withdrawal from the Paris Climate Agreement, prepared by GEI Executive Board President Dr. ZHANG Ji-Qiang and Executive Secretary JI Lin, please click “Read More.”