Publication

This commentary discusses the role of the US in promoting climate protection. The authors argue that despite opposition from US Congress and climate skeptics, President Obama is pushing for climate protection both domestically and at the international level. They then review recent domestic US environment initiatives, including the Clean Power Plan proposed in June 2014, its chances of success and foreseeable impact. They also discuss Obama’s international climate commitments and leadership role in international climate negotiations and discuss how greater US involvement in international climate policy could affect Germany and the EU’s calls for binding climate targets.