BELEM, Brazil — California Governor Gavin Newsom expressed concerns over the absence of the United States at the COP30 climate summit, labeling this withdrawal as 'doubling down on stupid.' Newsom emphasized that the U.S. is jeopardizing its economic future by not participating in crucial international negotiations aimed at combating climate change.
As a leading representative at the conference, Newsom highlighted that, despite the policies of the Trump administration, various states across the U.S. continue to promote green initiatives and combat climate change locally.
President Trump has previously withdrawn from the 2015 Paris Agreement, which set global targets for reducing carbon emissions. Newsom criticized this stance, stating it conveys a message that the U.S. is indifferent to global climate issues.
In stark contrast to Trump's administration, Newsom advocated for proactive measures, arguing that countries worldwide, including those traditionally viewed as fossil fuel-heavy like Russia and Saudi Arabia, are advancing towards greener energy.
During the summit, Newsom voiced, 'Anyone paying attention here?' referencing the drastic changes in climate affecting regions throughout California, including catastrophic wildfires and severe droughts.
He reiterated the state's commitment to reaching carbon neutrality by 2045, demonstrating California's leadership in the global shift toward sustainable climate practices.
Furthermore, Newsom denounced Trump's deregulation efforts that favor fossil fuel production, warning that such policies would cause the U.S. to lag in green technology and threaten its economic viability against emerging leaders in clean energy like China.
Despite challenges, Newsom assured attendees that innovative policies are being implemented in California to boost clean energy alternatives and ecological conservation, underlining the state's resilience in the face of an evolving climate crisis.
Veteran climate negotiator Alden Meyer noted the significance of state leadership at the international level, despite the federal government's absence, marking it as a hopeful sign for collaborative climate resilience efforts.
