The reduction of greenhouse gas emissions in the United States slowed significantly in 2024, according to preliminary estimates from the independent research center Rhodium Group. With a mere 0.2% decrease, this performance starkly contrasts with the 3.3% decline observed the previous year. This lack of progress diverges from the targets of the Paris Agreement and threatens Washington’s climate commitments.
Following promising momentum in 2023, researchers note that this near stagnation is primarily due to economic and climatic factors. A reduction in manufacturing output, affected by strikes and natural disasters such as Hurricane Helene, temporarily lowered industrial emissions. However, these gains were offset by increased travel and rising electricity demand driven by widespread air conditioning use during an exceptionally hot year.
A Threatened Reduction Target
To meet its commitment to halve emissions by 2030 compared to 2005 levels, the United States needs to achieve an annual decrease of 7.6% starting in 2025. Experts highlight that such a pace is unprecedented outside of economic recessions. “This stagnation directly threatens the nation’s ability to meet its climate goals,” warn analysts at the Rhodium Group.
Investments in energy transition measures, initiated under the Biden administration, could still make a difference in the coming years. These initiatives aim to boost renewable energy use and foster sustainable decoupling between economic growth and greenhouse gas emissions.
Encouraging Advances in Renewable Energy
Despite the disappointing context, the report highlights a significant milestone: in 2024, combined solar and wind energy production surpassed coal for the first time, marking a key step toward decarbonizing the energy sector. This transition is seen as a positive signal for the future, although experts remain cautious given political uncertainties.
The inauguration of Donald Trump, scheduled for January 2025, could disrupt these projections. The Republican, a known climate skeptic, plans to revise or repeal several key measures implemented by his predecessor. Such a strategy could slow the energy transition and undermine the United States’ climate roadmap.
A Global Challenge
This U.S. assessment aligns with a global trend of concern. Other major economies, such as Germany, also struggle to maintain a steady pace in reducing emissions. These collective delays underscore the urgency of strengthening international commitments to mitigate the effects of climate change.
