Regional efforts to combat climate change will not stop despite possible changes in federal policy following recent US elections, representatives of the America Is All In coalition said during the press conference "Climate Action from US States and Cities" at COP29 in Baku.
In his speech, Washington State Governor Jay Inslee emphasized that the US Climate Alliance, including 24 states, represents 60% of the country's economy and intends to continue implementing clean energy. He stressed that federal elections won't prevent states from developing clean energy initiatives, such as implementing electric vehicles and improving energy efficiency standards.
US laws on emissions limits and investments will remain in force, regardless of changes at the federal level, he said, adding that Donald Trump won't be able to block their achievements.
California's Environmental Protection Secretary Yana Garcia noted that her state has demonstrated possibility to simultaneously reduce emissions and achieve economic growth. Garcia emphasized the importance of alliances such as the US Climate Alliance and Under 2 Coalition, which unite subnational governments committed to achieving zero emissions by 2050. She stated that California will continue leadership in climate policy, regardless of political changes at the federal level.
The achievements show the world that emissions reduction is possible without harming the economy, Garcia said pledging to continue these efforts and further push national governments toward more ambitious goals.
Maryland's Environmental Protection Secretary Serena McIlwain noted that her state aims for 100% clean energy by 2035 and plans to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 60% by 2031. She emphasized that climate change is already impacting states through rising sea levels and increased health risks.
At the meeting's conclusion, Inslee called on international partners to act actively and not stop at achievements, emphasizing the importance of joint efforts. He noted that the US is already the world's leading producer of silicon anode batteries and emphasized the importance of further developing cooperation.
Climate change is a threat that countries cannot hide from, he said stressing the need for joining efforts and continuing fighting this challenge.
The America's All In coalition aims to demonstrate commitment to climate policy at the state level, despite uncertainty at the federal level.