On 28 March, President Trump signed an executive order significantly undermining US action on climate change.

This decision will roll back US plans to decarbonise its energy sector and economy under the Clean Power Plan. It will also derail the US’ efforts to reduce its greenhouse gas emissions in line with its commitments to the international community in the global fight against climate change.

Chair of the Least Developed Countries Group, Gebru Jember Endalew, said: “I am seriously concerned that President Trump has decided to roll back key climate change policies and hinder the progress made in decarbonising the US economy because this decision will have a serious impact on the global trajectory on climate action.  It will also have a significant, detrimental impact on the US economy, American jobs and industry, and the health of Americans, their children and future generations.”

“Climate change is already causing devastating impacts, both in the US and on the poor and vulnerable people in our countries. Communities in our countries have been feeling these impacts for decades. Americans too have already felt the impact of record droughts, heat waves, flooding and rising sea levels. These impacts will only become more severe without ambitious action and cooperation by all nations, including the US.”

“Countries, states, cities and the biggest companies across the US and the world are already taking such action and inspiring others to do the same. The most progressive countries in the world are leading the way with their ambitious action and they are on track to define and lead the new low-carbon economies of the future. They will be the most prosperous and competitive societies as a result. Even in the US, there are already more Americans working in jobs providing clean energy than all fossil fuels-related jobs combined. It is clear that this momentum is real and undeniable”.

“The world cannot afford to wait. In the face of this US President’s decision, the international community must continue to tackle climate change and cooperate to meet the vital goals we set in the historic Paris Agreement for the safety of present and future generations.”

“I am heartened by the commitments of other countries in the international community to take on a leadership role on climate change.”

“I strongly urge President Trump to reconsider his decision, to protect current and future generations of Americans and to meet the US’ international commitments in the global effort to tackle climate change. America needs to develop a clear and effective plan to do this. The US should also continue to play an important role in the solution by re-joining the collective fight against climate change and continuing to provide crucial support to the countries that need it.”