US Special Envoy for Climate to meet with German officials
US Special Envoy for Climate John Kerry will conclude his week of visits with European representatives by meeting with German officials in Berlin today.
Following President Biden’s Leaders Summit on Climate, Kerry advanced Washington’s climate agenda and its desire to work with advanced economies, particularly in the lead up to high-level meetings such as the G7 and the UN Climate Change Conference.
The US aims to cut carbon emissions by 50-52% in 2030 compared to 2005 levels, a goal in line with recent laws passed by the EU adopting ambitious targets of 55% emissions reductions from 1990 levels.
Exactly how these reductions will be met is still unclear, but advancements in renewable technologies–some not realised yet–are likely the answer. Expect Kerry and the Biden administration to face further criticisms from conservatives regarding job security amidst a planned energy transition and the ambiguity of proposed technologies. Given enough time to implement a climate strategy, Washington could join the EU in hitting their targets. Likely roadblocks include brokering financial assurance for fossil-fuel communities and affirming critical energy technologies are safe and secure in the wake of the Colonial Pipeline attack.
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