Low Carbon USA: A Collective Commitment to Combat Climate Change

The climate crisis is one of the most pressing issues of our time, and addressing it requires a united, global effort. Amidst various political and economic challenges, a powerful movement known as “We Are Still In” has emerged, embodying the collective commitment of a diverse coalition of leaders, businesses, and institutions to uphold the goals of the Paris Agreement. This article explores the origins, impact, and future prospects of the “We Are Still In” movement, demonstrating how collective action can drive meaningful progress in the fight against climate change.

The Origins of “We Are Still In”

The “We Are Still In” movement emerged from a pivotal moment in June 2017, when the United States government announced its intention to withdraw from the Paris Agreement. This international accord, adopted in 2015 by nearly 200 nations, aims to limit global warming to well below 2 degrees Celsius above pre-industrial levels, with an aspirational goal of limiting the increase to 1.5 degrees. The decision to exit the agreement was met with profound concern and disappointment from environmentalists, scientists, and climate advocates worldwide, who feared it would undermine global efforts to combat climate change.

In reaction to this decision, a broad coalition of American leaders united to reaffirm their dedication to the Paris Agreement’s objectives, irrespective of federal policies. This coalition, composed of governors, mayors, business leaders, university presidents, and faith leaders, collectively declared, “We Are Still In.” They committed to taking proactive measures to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, bolster resilience to climate impacts, and hasten the transition to a clean energy economy.

The movement’s foundation is built on the understanding that subnational actors and non-state entities play a crucial role in addressing climate change. Recognizing that cities, states, businesses, universities, and other organizations have significant power to drive climate action, “We Are Still In” aims to fill the leadership void left by the federal government’s withdrawal. This commitment includes a wide range of initiatives, from adopting renewable energy and improving energy efficiency to implementing sustainable transportation solutions and supporting innovation in clean technology.

The coalition’s efforts demonstrate a robust commitment to upholding the principles of the Paris Agreement and advancing climate action on multiple fronts. By standing together, these leaders not only send a powerful message of resilience and determination but also showcase the potential for collective action to drive meaningful progress in the fight against climate change.

The Principles and Goals of “We Are Still In”

“We Are Still In” operates on the principle that subnational actors and non-state entities play a crucial role in driving climate action. The movement recognizes that cities, states, businesses, universities, and other organizations have the power to make significant contributions to mitigating climate change and that their collective efforts can compensate for the absence of federal leadership.

Key Goals of “We Are Still In”

1. Reduce Greenhouse Gas Emissions: The movement aims to significantly cut emissions through various strategies, including transitioning to renewable energy sources, enhancing energy efficiency, and promoting sustainable transportation.
2. Increase Climate Resilience: By developing and implementing adaptation strategies, the coalition seeks to protect communities from the adverse impacts of climate change, such as extreme weather events, sea-level rise, and prolonged droughts.
3. Support Clean Energy Innovation: “We Are Still In” champions the advancement of clean energy technologies and encourages investments in renewable energy infrastructure, research, and development.
4. Foster Collaboration: The movement promotes partnerships and knowledge-sharing among diverse stakeholders, including governments, businesses, academia, and civil society, to amplify climate action efforts.
5. Advocate for Climate Policy: The coalition supports the development and implementation of policies at local, state, and national levels that align with the Paris Agreement’s goals and facilitate the transition to a low-carbon economy.

Notable Participants and Their Contributions

The “We Are Still In” movement draws its strength from its broad and diverse membership, comprising state and local governments, businesses, universities, and faith-based organizations. Each participant brings unique contributions to advance the movement’s goals, demonstrating a collective commitment to combatting climate change.

• State and Local Governments

California has established itself as a leader in climate action with ambitious policies like the Global Warming Solutions Act (AB 32), targeting a reduction in greenhouse gas emissions to 1990 levels by 2020 and a further reduction to 40% below 1990 levels by 2030. The state has made significant investments in renewable energy and electric vehicle infrastructure, paving the way for a sustainable future.

New York City, through its OneNYC initiative, has committed to reducing greenhouse gas emissions by 80% by 2050. The city is focused on improving energy efficiency in buildings, expanding public transportation, and promoting green infrastructure to meet its ambitious climate goals.

• Businesses

Apple, a global technology leader, aims to achieve carbon neutrality across its entire supply chain and product lifecycle by 2030. The company has invested heavily in renewable energy projects worldwide and is pioneering innovative recycling technologies to minimize its environmental footprint.

Walmart has launched Project Gigaton, an initiative aimed at reducing emissions across its global supply chain by one billion metric tons by 2030. Walmart is working closely with suppliers to enhance energy efficiency, reduce waste, and promote sustainable agricultural practices, showcasing how large corporations can lead in sustainability efforts.

• Universities

The University of California system has set an ambitious goal to achieve carbon neutrality across all its campuses by 2025. This involves transitioning to renewable energy, improving energy efficiency, and investing in sustainable transportation options, setting a benchmark for educational institutions worldwide.

Harvard University is committed to achieving fossil fuel-free operations by 2050, with an interim goal of reducing emissions by 30% by 2026. The university is investing in renewable energy projects and enhancing the sustainability of its campus operations, demonstrating a long-term commitment to climate action.

• Faith-Based Organizations

Interfaith Power & Light is a national network mobilizing faith communities to take action on climate change. Through educational programs, advocacy efforts, and practical initiatives, the organization encourages sustainable practices and environmental stewardship among congregations.

The Evangelical Environmental Network works to educate and mobilize evangelical Christians on climate issues. By advocating for policies that protect the environment and promote clean energy, the organization plays a vital role in bridging faith and climate action.

Impact and Achievements

Since its inception, “We Are Still In” has made significant strides in advancing climate action across the United States. The coalition’s efforts have resulted in measurable reductions in greenhouse gas emissions, increased investment in renewable energy, and the implementation of innovative sustainability practices, marking substantial progress in the fight against climate change.

• Emissions Reductions

A core achievement of the “We Are Still In” movement is the substantial reduction in greenhouse gas emissions reported by many of its participants. For instance, California’s comprehensive climate policies have led to a significant decrease in emissions, positioning the state to meet its ambitious targets. Similarly, leading companies like Apple and Walmart have made considerable progress in reducing their carbon footprints through extensive investments in renewable energy and sustainable supply chain practices. These efforts showcase how committed actions can yield tangible environmental benefits and set a precedent for others to follow.

• Renewable Energy Adoption

The movement has also catalyzed a significant surge in renewable energy adoption. Numerous cities, states, and businesses have pledged to source 100% of their electricity from renewable sources. This commitment is not only driving the growth of the clean energy sector but also creating new jobs and reducing the reliance on fossil fuels. By prioritizing renewable energy, these entities are contributing to a sustainable energy future, fostering economic resilience, and supporting the broader transition to a low-carbon economy.

• Policy Influence

“We Are Still In” has played a pivotal role in shaping climate policy at various levels of government. The coalition’s advocacy efforts have been instrumental in the adoption of progressive climate policies and regulations that align with the goals of the Paris Agreement. By demonstrating the feasibility and benefits of climate action, the movement has influenced public opinion and garnered widespread support for ambitious climate initiatives. This policy influence has created an enabling environment for continued and expanded climate action across the country.

• Collaborative Innovation

A key strength of “We Are Still In” lies in its emphasis on collaboration and knowledge-sharing. By fostering partnerships among diverse stakeholders, including governments, businesses, academia, and civil society, the movement has facilitated the development and implementation of innovative solutions to complex climate challenges. This collaborative approach has accelerated the dissemination of best practices, allowing for more efficient and effective climate actions. The collective effort has amplified the impact of individual initiatives, proving that when various sectors work together, the results can be far-reaching and transformative.

• Economic and Social Benefits

Beyond environmental gains, the “We Are Still In” movement has also generated significant economic and social benefits. The push for renewable energy and sustainable practices has created numerous jobs in the clean energy sector, contributing to economic growth and stability. Additionally, efforts to enhance energy efficiency and adopt sustainable technologies have led to cost savings for businesses and consumers alike. Socially, the movement has fostered greater community resilience and engagement, as local and state governments, businesses, and citizens come together to address climate challenges.

Future Prospects

The “We Are Still In” movement continues to grow and evolve, with new participants joining the coalition and expanding its reach. As the urgency of the climate crisis intensifies, the movement’s role in driving climate action becomes increasingly important. Each new member brings fresh perspectives and resources, enhancing the collective ability to combat climate change. The growth of the movement underscores the widespread recognition of the importance of proactive climate measures and the critical need for united action.

• Strengthening Commitments

To maintain momentum, participants are encouraged to strengthen their climate commitments and set more ambitious targets. By continuously raising the bar, the movement can drive greater progress and inspire others to follow suit. Stronger commitments can lead to more significant reductions in greenhouse gas emissions and faster adoption of sustainable practices. Setting higher goals demonstrates a serious commitment to combating climate change and showcases leadership, motivating other organizations and entities to take similar actions.

• Expanding Participation

Efforts to expand participation in “We Are Still In” are ongoing. Engaging more cities, states, businesses, and institutions will enhance the movement’s impact and ensure that climate action is a priority across all sectors of society. Broadening the coalition’s base not only increases its influence but also spreads best practices and innovations. By reaching out to diverse sectors and encouraging their involvement, the movement can create a more comprehensive and effective approach to addressing climate change, making significant strides toward a sustainable future.

• Enhancing Policy Advocacy

As the movement grows, so does its capacity to influence policy. By continuing to advocate for robust climate policies at local, state, and national levels, “We Are Still In” can help create an enabling environment for widespread climate action. Strong policy advocacy is essential for driving systemic change and ensuring long-term sustainability. By leveraging the collective voice of its members, the movement can push for policies that support renewable energy, energy efficiency, and other critical climate actions, paving the way for a sustainable future.

• Leveraging Technology

Advances in technology will play a crucial role in the movement’s future success. Participants are encouraged to leverage cutting-edge technologies, such as artificial intelligence, blockchain, and the Internet of Things (IoT), to enhance their climate initiatives and drive efficiency and innovation. These technologies can provide powerful tools for monitoring and reducing emissions, optimizing energy use, and tracking progress. By integrating the latest technological advancements into their climate strategies, participants can achieve more effective and scalable solutions to the climate crisis, ensuring that their efforts have the maximum possible impact.

Conclusion

The “We Are Still In” movement represents a powerful and united front in the fight against climate change. By bringing together a diverse coalition of leaders, businesses, and institutions, the movement demonstrates that meaningful climate action is both achievable and beneficial. A key player in this effort is Low Carbon USA (lowcarbonusa.org), a platform dedicated to supporting businesses in implementing sustainable practices and tracking their progress toward a low-carbon future. Through continued collaboration, innovation, and advocacy, “We Are Still In” will remain a driving force for a sustainable future, proving that collective commitment can overcome the challenges posed by climate change.