If Donald Trump wins, it is to be expected that US climate policy will once again turn away from global commitments. During his first term in office, Trump sent clear signals against climate protection: he stopped measures to reduce emissions, relied on fossil fuels such as oil and coal and even temporarily withdrew the USA from the Paris Climate Agreement (ZDF).
Another Trump election victory could put the brakes on international climate efforts, as many countries are reliant on strong US leadership. Developing countries in particular need financial support for climate protection, and a US withdrawal would weaken the momentum in international negotiations. While individual states and companies in the US are taking action on their own and focusing on clean energy, without national support the potential for widespread change remains limited.
In contrast, a Kamala Harris presidency could take US climate action to a new level. Harris has been actively campaigning for climate protection and environmental justice for years and emphasizes that disadvantaged population groups are particularly affected by climate change (Wikipedia). As Vice President, she supported the Inflation Reduction Act, the largest climate protection package in US history. This legislative package promotes investments in renewable energies and measures to reduce emissions and could be expanded even further under her leadership.
Interestingly, Harris takes a moderate position on fracking in order to appeal to voters in energy-intensive regions such as Pennsylvania (Le Monde). Even if she does not seek a ban, her presidency as a whole would send a clear signal in favor of ambitious climate policy and a strong commitment to international cooperation on climate change.
On behalf of Polyas, we conducted a study that shows how the type of voting process affects emissions. The results suggest that online elections could make a significant contribution to reducing emissions compared to traditional, physical elections. This is an exciting starting point for reducing emissions in the political context and developing sustainable solutions for democratic processes.
https://www.polyas.de/online-wahlen/studie-nachhaltigkeit
The election result in the USA will therefore influence not only national but also global climate action. While Trump's election victory could probably lead to a slowdown, a Kamala Harris presidency could strengthen climate protection and provide positive impetus. Regardless of the outcome, the hope remains that regional players and companies will continue to pursue their own ambitious climate targets and that the USA, with or without federal support, will make its contribution to solving the climate crisis.
Our forester Namati from Togo discovers German forestry and learns about new techniques and approaches. His trip was an inspiring exchange between cultures and shows that sustainability knows no borders. His experiences are directly incorporated into his work in Togo.
Emission factors in the CO₂ balance fluctuate – but why? Changes in energy use and more accurate measurement methods are the reasons. Find out why these adjustments are not a mistake, but represent progress in climate protection.
Namati, our forester from Togo, is visiting Germany for a month! He is exploring our local forest conservation projects and experiencing the German winter at first hand. The exchange provides valuable insights that benefit both our work and his work in the natural forest. We are looking forward to more inspiring weeks with Namati!
The US presidential election has a global impact, particularly on climate protection. Trump’s re-election could slow down climate protection efforts, while Kamala Harris could ensure progress with an ambitious climate policy. The outcome of this election is crucial for international climate policy.
The X-Degree Compatibility (XDC) model and the Science Based Targets Initiative (SBTi) offer companies effective tools for reducing CO₂ emissions. Find out how these tools help to achieve climate targets and develop strategic measures for climate neutrality.
Renewable energies produce significantly less CO2 than fossil fuels. Find out how emissions differ over the entire life cycle and why switching to sustainable energy sources is crucial for climate protection.
As part of PROJECT TOGO, a new well was inaugurated in the village of Aboudjokopé, providing access to clean water. This project improves the quality of life, promotes health and strengthens the community through sustainable solutions and local responsibility.
The EU Deforestation Act obliges printers and agencies to make their paper supply chains sustainable and transparent. Find out how the law promotes the protection of forests and the reduction of CO₂ emissions and what measures companies must take to comply with the regulations.
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