On January 27, 2021, President Joe Biden took bold action to address one of the most pressing issues of our time – climate change. In a series of executive orders signed at the White House, President Biden outlined his administration’s plan to tackle the climate crisis head on.
The executive orders aim to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, promote clean energy, and protect public lands and waterways. One of the most significant actions taken by President Biden was rejoining the Paris Climate Agreement, an international accord aimed at limiting global temperature rise to below 2 degrees Celsius. By recommitting to the agreement, the United States is once again a leader in the global fight against climate change.
In addition to rejoining the Paris Agreement, President Biden signed an executive order directing federal agencies to reconsider and reverse some of the harmful environmental policies put in place by the previous administration. This includes revoking the permit for the Keystone XL pipeline, which would have transported oil from Canada to the Gulf Coast, and placing a temporary moratorium on oil and gas leasing in the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge.
Furthermore, the executive orders outline a plan to promote clean energy and create green jobs. President Biden directed federal agencies to prioritize clean energy and infrastructure projects that will create millions of good-paying jobs and reduce emissions. He also established a White House Office of Domestic Climate Policy to coordinate climate action across all federal agencies.
These executive orders are a crucial first step in the Biden administration’s plan to combat climate change and protect our planet for future generations. By recommitting to global cooperation, reversing harmful environmental policies, and promoting clean energy, President Biden is showing that the United States is ready to take bold action to address the climate crisis.
However, tackling climate change will require more than just executive orders. It will require a sustained and concerted effort from all levels of government, businesses, and individuals. As President Biden said during the signing of the executive orders, “When I think of climate change, I think of jobs.” By prioritizing clean energy and sustainable development, we can create a better future for all while also protecting our planet.
