Davos, Switzerland – On the second day of the World Economic Forum, the global community reacted strongly to the announcement from U.S. President Donald Trump regarding the nation’s withdrawal from the Paris climate agreement. European leaders affirmed their commitment to the agreement, emphasizing their determination to work together with other nations dedicated to environmental protection and mitigating climate change.
Ursula von der Leyen, the chief of the European Union, stated unequivocally, “Europe will stay the course, and keep working with all nations that want to protect nature and stop global warming.” She emphasized that the 27-member bloc remains committed to the Paris climate accord. “The Paris Agreement continues to be the best hope for all humanity,” she asserted.
The Paris agreement seeks to limit the increase in global temperatures to 2.7 degrees Fahrenheit (1.5 degrees Celsius) above pre-industrial levels or, if that is not achievable, to ensure the rise remains below 3.6 degrees Fahrenheit (2 degrees Celsius).
Before von der Leyen’s remarks, climate activists interrupted the proceedings at the secured venue, displaying a banner with the message: “Tax the super-rich! Fund a just and green future.”
At a panel discussing the forthcoming climate negotiations scheduled in Brazil, Simon Stiell, the United Nations climate chief, noted that despite the U.S.’s exit, “the door remains open” for the country to re-engage. He pointed out that the global energy transition is an irreversible process, citing that last year alone saw over $2 trillion invested in renewable energy, which significantly outpaced the $1 trillion directed towards fossil fuels.
Stiell expressed concern about “crisis fatigue,” revealing that climate issues have fallen lower on global priority lists during a time filled with widespread crises. He added, however, that although political landscapes may shift, “the science behind climate hasn’t changed. The impacts, however, have worsened.”
Belgium’s Prime Minister Alexander De Croo addressed Trump’s decision during a session focused on the transition to clean energy in Europe, stating, “The world is full of uncertainty after yesterday even more.” He urged European Union members to maintain clarity in their climate goals and avoid adding to the uncertainty.
Business representatives at Davos echoed the sentiment in favor of adhering to climate initiatives. Jesper Brodin, CEO of IKEA, remarked, “For us, who have been on this bumpy journey for a few years, we understand more each year how we not only can meet the Paris Agreement but also reap business benefits.”
Criticism of the U.S. withdrawal came from climate scientists and activists from the Global South. Harjeet Singh from the Fossil Fuels Non-Proliferation Treaty in New Delhi noted, “Globally, Trump’s decision undermines our collective efforts against climate change at a moment when unity and urgency are essential. Sadly, the consequences are most likely to impact developing nations, which contribute least to emissions but will suffer from severe weather, rising sea levels, and devastating droughts.”
Damilola Ogunbiyi, CEO and UN Secretary-General’s Special Representative for Sustainable Energy for All, stressed the importance of ongoing collaboration, stating, “We are working together on a scale that cannot be halted by any single leader’s decision. It is simply the right thing to do.”
China also expressed apprehension regarding the U.S. departure from the Paris Agreement. Foreign Ministry spokesperson Guo Jiakun mentioned, “Climate change is a shared challenge for humanity, wherein no nation can isolate itself. No country can escape its effects.”
