During a significant international hearing on climate change, a representative from the United States expressed support for the Paris Agreement, but raised concerns about the country’s commitments under a Trump administration.
On Wednesday, Margaret L. Taylor, a legal adviser for the State Department, addressed the International Court of Justice and emphasized the severity of the climate crisis, stating that it is one of the greatest challenges facing humanity. However, she also defended the existing United Nations system for addressing climate change, despite criticism that it has not effectively curbed the alarming increase in global temperatures.
Ms. Taylor asserted that the U.N. climate change regime, with the Paris Agreement as its cornerstone, is the only international legal framework specifically designed by nations to tackle climate change. She emphasized the importance of cooperative efforts through this regime in safeguarding the climate system for the benefit of present and future generations.
However, Ms. Taylor did not address the issue of how long the United States will remain a party to the Paris Agreement. In 2015, nearly every country in the world committed to reducing greenhouse gas emissions through this agreement, but President Donald J. Trump withdrew the U.S. from it during his first term and is expected to do so again.
Ms. Taylor’s remarks sparked criticism from small island nations and environmental groups, who argue that more urgent action is needed. At a series of hearings this month, the first at the court to address climate change, these nations and groups are seeking to hold the United States and other major historical polluters accountable for the damage they have caused to the planet.
Ralph Regenvanu, special envoy for climate change and environment for the island nation of Vanuatu, expressed disappointment with the positions taken by the United States, Australia, Saudi Arabia, and China in their statements.
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