Kamala Harris Declares $3 Billion US Contribution to Global Climate Initiative at Dubai Summit
TL/DR –
Vice President Kamala Harris announced new climate funding at the COP28 summit, including an additional $3 billion pledge to the Green Climate Fund, a financial vehicle aiding developing nations in managing the climate crisis. This follows criticism of the US for its perceived insufficient contribution to a newly created damage fund for climate disasters. Other US measures highlighted at the summit included the Environmental Protection Agency finalizing a rule to cut methane emissions from the oil and gas industry by nearly 80%, and an ongoing commitment to phasing out coal-fired power plants.
VP Harris Announces New Climate Action Funding at COP28 Summit
In Washington DC, Vice President Kamala Harris announced new funding for action against the climate crisis at the COP28 summit in Dubai. Harris pledged an additional $3 billion to the Green Climate Fund to assist developing nations with climate adaptation and reducing fossil fuel pollution.
US Boosts Climate Aid, Criticized for Previous Donation
The new funding followed criticism of the US’s previously small contribution of $17.5 million to a damage fund for nations affected by climate disasters. Harris highlighted new investments in clean energy and resilience efforts, turning “ambition into action.”
US Plans to Slash Methane Emissions, Phase Out Coal
US officials also announced a rule expected to reduce methane emissions by nearly 80% from the oil and gas industry and made a commitment to phasing out coal-fired power plants. This comes as coal, the fossil fuel with the most significant climate impact, has been increasingly replaced by renewable energy in the US.
Harris’s Climate Change Advocacy
Harris’s attendance at the summit aligns with her recent efforts to enhance public dialogue on climate change. She has attended numerous climate-related events, engaging with students and young voters on this pressing issue.
Highest-Ranking US Official at Dubai Conference
As the highest-ranking US official present at the COP28, Harris also discussed the Israel-Hamas conflict with world leaders. President Joe Biden decided against attending the summit, a decision that received some criticism.
Climate Change as an Election Issue
Climate change is a top concern for young progressive voters. Despite Biden’s commitment to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, polls show disapproval of his handling of climate policy. A Washington Post-University of Maryland poll revealed that 57% of Americans and 59% of 18-29 year olds disapprove of Biden’s performance in this area.
This story has been updated with additional information. CNN’s Priscilla Alvarez, Sam Fossum, and Ella Nilsen contributed to this report.
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