Kamala Harris Unveils Ambitious $3 Billion US Commitment to Global Climate Action at Dubai Summit
Vice President Kamala Harris announces $3 billion US pledge to global climate action at COP28 conference in Dubai, highlighting American leadership in combating climate change
At the COP28 summit in Dubai, Vice President Kamala Harris unveiled new funding for climate action and highlighted American leadership in addressing the climate crisis. She emphasized recent investments in clean energy and initiatives to build resilience in vulnerable communities. Additionally, Harris announced a $3 billion pledge to the Green Climate Fund, doubling the US's previous contribution of $2 billion, to aid developing nations in adapting to the climate crisis and reducing fossil fuel pollution.
The announcement follows criticism from climate experts and advocacy groups over the US contribution of $17.5 million to a newly established damage fund for climate disasters in developing countries. Vice President Harris declared on Saturday that the United States has translated ambition into action, highlighting substantial investments under the bipartisan infrastructure law and the Inflation Reduction Act. These investments include the establishment and expansion of solar panel, wind turbine, electric vehicle, and battery manufacturing plants, as well as initiatives to protect habitats and communities from climate-driven extreme weather and rising seas.
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"Harris stated, "Today we are showcasing through our actions how the world can and must address this crisis. This is a critical juncture."
US officials have finalized a rule from the Environmental Protection Agency that is expected to drastically reduce methane emissions by almost 80% from the oil and gas industry. Additionally, they have committed to phasing out coal-fired power plants and have joined the Powering Past Coal Alliance, which focuses on stopping new unabated coal plants. The country has already been moving away from coal, with the natural gas boom and the rise of more affordable renewable energy sources like wind and solar leading to the retirement of a significant amount of coal-fired power over the past decade.
Harris's participation in the Dubai summit is part of her recent efforts to increase public awareness about climate change. She has been actively engaging in climate-related events, including conversations with students and young voters about this critical issue.
"The climate situation is urgent," Harris stated on Saturday. "We need to act quickly and decisively, as we cannot afford to make incremental progress when it comes to this matter."
Countries around the world need to show courage and determination," she emphasized. "We must address the climate crisis as the serious threat it is. It is our responsibility, not an option."
She is the highest-ranking US official to participate in the conference since President Joe Biden chose not to attend for the first time during his term, having attended both the 2021 and 2022 conferences. Despite some climate activists' reduced view of these meetings, the president faced criticism for choosing not to go to Dubai for this year's summit. US presidents typically do not attend every annual climate conference, usually only attending during significant years.
Attendees arrive at the COP28 climate conference at Expo City in Dubai, United Arab Emirates, on December 2, 2023.
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No-shows and walkouts as Israel-Hamas war looms over crucial climate talks
The White House indicated that Harris will address the Israel-Hamas conflict at the summit through discussions with global leaders. She will have the chance to meet with regional leaders and consult with them on the latest developments in Gaza, with a specific focus on planning for the aftermath.
The week started the summit, as global representatives officially approved a long-awaited damage fund. In a promising development, several countries pledged millions of dollars to support the nations most affected by the climate crisis. The UAE and Germany each promised $100 million, while the UK pledged £60 million, some of which will go toward "other arrangements," according to a statement. The US committed $17.5 million, and Japan contributed $10 million.
The Biden administration's approach to addressing climate change reflects a broader pattern leading up to next year's general election. Recent polls indicate low approval ratings for Biden among voters, with former President Donald Trump, the leading candidate for the Republican presidential nomination, ahead in key battleground states. Additionally, the administration has struggled to effectively communicate its major accomplishments in a way that resonates with voters.
Many young progressive voters consider climate change a top issue and are critical of the Biden administration's efforts to address it. Despite significant actions taken, such as signing the Inflation Reduction Act and recommitting the US to the Paris Agreement, there is a perception among young voters that the administration has not done enough. According to a Washington Post-University of Maryland poll, 57% of Americans disapproved of Biden's handling of climate policy, with higher disapproval rates among younger demographics. Most Americans have little awareness of the Inflation Reduction Act, with 71% reporting that they have read or heard very little about it.
This story has been updated with additional information.
CNNs Priscilla Alvarez, Sam Fossum and Ella Nilsen contributed to this report.
