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It seems like you cant read a newspaper or turn on a television without reading a new study on climate change. With melting ice caps and species dying, things are a bit frightening.
And given recent events, it seems discussions are more heated than ever.
President Trumps decision to remove the United States from the Paris Climate Change Agreement was a controversial decision, to say the least. Previously, the U.S. was working with 195 other countries to try and combat the effects of global warming.
But what is exactly is the Accord and what does it mean for international diplomacy?
Keep reading for some quick facts to get you up to speed.
1. The United States Cant Pull Out Overnight
Its going to take a few years before the U.S. is officially done with the Paris Accord. While Trumps decision made headlines, the withdrawal will take more time than he thinks.
Just how long will it take for the United States to revoke their membership? About 4 years, which coincides with the next presidential election.
This means that Trumps decision can be easily reversed should he not serve a second term.
2. There are Only 3 Countries Not Participating in the Agreement
Originally, there were only 2 countries Nicaragua and Syria that didnt sign on to the Accord. Should President Trumps decision stand, the United States will become the third.
Even areas that the U.S. has traditionally had issues with such as Russia and North Korea participate.
3. The Paris Climate Change Agreement Isnt Legally Binding
As it turns out, the reason Nicaragua declined to sign was for this very reason. While the country acknowledges climate change as a very real threat, they believe its up to the richer nations to combat change first.
And therein lies one of the most important aspects of the Accord. It isnt a legally binding document, so there isnt much of anything to hold a countrys feet to the fire. Participation is entirely on a voluntary basis.
4. China and India Complicate Matters
And since the Accord is voluntary, there arent any tangible consequences at least not yet.
China and India pose the two biggest threats to the fight on climate change, as both nations produce large amounts of carbon emissions.
You may recall President Trumps assertion that, China can do whatever they want for 13 years while the U.S. has to reduce coal production. In fact, it was touted as one of his primary reasons for removing the U.S. from talks.
His statement, however, is simply not true. PolitiFact points out that the document doesnt prohibit any nation from anything.
5. Most State Representatives Arent Happy With the Decision
Several states have already said that theyre not following the Presidents orders. In fact, New York and California have already promised to reduce their emissions.
In an unprecedented move, Trumps decision united bipartisan efforts to combat climate change.
What to Watch For
The following months are going to be an interesting time for climate discussions. With states now leading the effort to combat air pollutants, this isnt a fight thats going to die down soon.
Be sure to keep reading our blog as developments occur.
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