Climate funding cuts

Just as the world was struggling to cope with the impacts of previous climate funding cuts, the Trump administration has made a move that could set back environmental progress for years. In a controversial decision, $20 billion allocated for greenhouse gas reduction projects has been cancelled.

The decision, which climate advocates and legal experts argue is both reckless and unlawful, threatens to derail crucial efforts to curb pollution at a time when global climate action is more urgent than ever.

The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has been open about its intent to claw back climate-related funds. But this latest action of freezing the Greenhouse Gas Reduction Fund disrupts legally approved projects and leaves communities vulnerable. Over the weekend, an advocacy group has sued the EPA and Citibank for withholding the funds, arguing that the administration is violating legally binding agreements with awardees.

At least seven other recipients have also been denied access to the funds, raising further concerns about the administration's disregard for legal climate commitments. The implications of this decision go beyond legal disputes. At a time when the world is grappling with intensifying natural disasters, such funding is not a luxury but a necessity.

Disadvantaged communities, which were supposed to benefit from these projects, will be left even more vulnerable as a result of these cuts.

This move is yet another clear indication that Trump means business in his 'America First' philosophy, prioritising domestic interests even at the cost of global environmental commitments. In doing so, his administration has once again reminded the world of the immense global stake the US holds in the fight against climate change. Whether by action or inaction, the country remains central to the world's climate trajectory.