After Rejoining the Paris Agreement, Biden-Harris Administration Commits to Ambitious Climate Pollution Reduction Target

President Biden announced today the U.S. 2030 Nationally Determined Contribution (NDC), the national target for climate pollution reduction required under the Paris Agreement. The NDC commits to cutting emissions by 50-52% below 2005 levels by 2030, a target that businesses and environmental groups have called for. President Biden has also committed to reducing methane pollution as part of his plan to reduce U.S. emissions. This announcement comes as Biden hosts 40 world leaders for a climate summit beginning on Earth Day, which aims to build momentum for the UN climate summit this fall.

The following is a statement from Jill Tauber, Vice President of Litigation for Climate & Energy:

“In this make-or-break moment for our planet, the Biden administration has taken swift action to restore our commitment to address the climate crisis and chart a course towards a pollution-free, 100% clean energy future for all. The target announced today is achievable, consistent with science, and in line with President Biden’s climate goals. It is a powerful signal to the world that the U.S. is serious about meeting the goals of the Paris Agreement and advancing bold climate solutions quickly and equitably.

“Scientists have been clear — we have less than a decade to enact the transformative changes we need to avoid climate catastrophe. In his first 100 days, President Biden has taken important steps to undo the damage inflicted by the previous administration and get us back on the right track. He has proposed a sweeping plan to rebuild our economy in a way that prioritizes environmental justice and reduces pollution in frontline communities. At the same time, there is still more work that needs to be done. President Biden has allowed the Dakota Access pipeline to operate in violation of federal law, a decision that’s not consistent with his commitment to fight climate change and to improve Tribal consultation.

“We need bold solutions to meet our Paris Agreement goals and combat the climate crises. We must meet this moment with the urgency and seriousness it deserves. That means cleaning up the electric grid; shifting from fossil fuel-fired power plants to clean energy resources like solar, wind, and batteries; maximizing energy efficiency; and electrifying transportation and buildings. It also means stopping destructive fossil fuel infrastructure — including pipelines and petrochemical plants. For too long, these projects have polluted the air and water of communities throughout the United States, communities that are predominantly low-income, and Black, Brown, and Indigenous, and who are also on the frontlines of the climate crisis.

Ahead of the UN climate change conference this fall, we look forward to working with the Biden administration and Congress to build momentum for just and equitable climate action and accelerate a transition to a zero emission, 100% clean energy economy where everyone benefits.”

Read more about the Biden Administration’s national climate pollution reduction target, and background on the Paris Agreement and how Earthjustice is working to meet our climate goals.