Biden Announces New U.S. Climate Target: 61-66% Emissions Cut by 2035

The Facts -

United States Sets Ambitious Emissions Reduction Target for 2035

As the global climate crisis intensifies, the United States has unveiled a new climate objective: reducing net greenhouse gas emissions by 61-66% below 2005 levels by 2035. This announcement aligns with a broader ambition to achieve net-zero emissions by 2050. The strategy leverages key legislative achievements like the Inflation Reduction Act and the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, while emphasizing collaboration with state, local, and Tribal governments and encouraging private sector investment.

A Renewed Commitment to the Paris Agreement

Back in 2015, the United States joined the Paris Agreement, a global pact to combat climate change. President Biden, on his first day in office, recommitted the nation to this agreement. In 2021, the administration proposed a goal to cut emissions by 50-52% by 2030. The newly announced 2035 target takes this ambition further, marking a crucial step toward the U.S. meeting its long-term climate goals. A formal submission has been made to the United Nations Climate Change secretariat to underscore this commitment.

Sectoral Innovation and Methane Reduction

The Biden-Harris Administration's approach involves dissecting every sector of the economy—ranging from power generation to agriculture—to foster technological advancements and competitive opportunities. A notable component of the strategy is a targeted reduction of methane emissions, aiming for a decrease of at least 35% by 2035 compared to 2005 levels. Methane reduction plays a vital role in mitigating short-term warming, complementing efforts to curb CO₂ emissions.

Economic and Technological Progress

The economic landscape is witnessing a transformation, with over $450 billion in private investments being funneled into clean energy and manufacturing projects. This shift is supported by falling costs in clean energy and advancements in grid technologies, which are making renewable energy sources more accessible and economically viable. Recent initiatives have led to job creation across several states. For instance, Arizona added over 370,000 jobs with investments in battery manufacturing, and California saw job growth in clean energy sectors thanks to multi-billion-dollar investments.

Fostering State and Local Government Leadership

Subnational governments have been pivotal in advancing climate action. With legislative backing, numerous states and communities have adopted policies promoting renewable energy and emission reductions. More than 45 states and 200 Tribal and local jurisdictions have crafted Climate Action Plans backed by substantial federal funding. Through initiatives like the Climate Action Plans and Climate Pollution Reduction Grants, these entities are poised to make significant progress in reducing climate pollution.

Technological Innovations and Federal Support

The push for a cleaner economy is underpinned by technological breakthroughs and federal policies. The cost of solar and wind energy continues to decline, positioning them on par with fossil fuels. Nuclear power is witnessing a resurgence with projects like the Vogtle nuclear power plant and advancements in geothermal technologies are paving the way for cost-effective clean energy solutions. The federal government, through its extensive procurement and infrastructure projects, is promoting sustainability and resilience in public operations.

These collective efforts across various sectors and regions demonstrate a nationwide commitment to building a sustainable future. The transition towards a clean energy economy is underway, promising job creation and environmental benefits, ensuring that the U.S. remains a key player in global climate action.

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