The Biden administration has made significant progress in the US transition to a greener economy, achieving “escape velocity” in several sectors and reframing climate policies as economic opportunities.
A Decade of Progress: The Biden Administration’s Climate Legacy
As President Biden prepares to leave the White House, his top climate adviser Ali Zaidi is sober about what’s coming – but says too much has already been built and invested for Donald Trump to undo it. With unprecedented funding towards clean energy, electric vehicles, and climate technology, the Biden administration has made a significant impact on the country’s transition to a greener economy.
The Moment of Escape Velocity
Looking ahead to 2050, the deadline set by the US for reaching net-zero emissions, Zaidi believes that this administration achieved “escape velocity” in several sectors. The transition from polluting products to cleaner ones is now on a secular trajectory, with significant progress made in vehicles, electricity generation, and industrial decarbonization.
Reframing Climate Policies
Historically, climate policies were seen as asking people to give things up. However, the Biden administration has reframed green policies in terms of reshoring, reindustrialization, and economic opportunities. This narrative shift has helped to make climate change an economic opportunity rather than a sacrifice.
Building Resilience and Momentum
Direct air capture, which received significant funding and support from the Biden administration, is at an inflection point that could break in multiple ways. Zaidi emphasizes the importance of building resilience and momentum behind this technology, as well as other deep decarbonization puzzle pieces like batteries, materials science, and electrolyzer technology.
Metrics for Success
To determine if the country is backsliding on its climate commitments, Zaidi will be looking at several metrics. These include:
- The growth of manufacturing capacity in clean energy technologies
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The expansion of climate-smart agricultural practices among farmers and ranchers
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The ability to build the necessary infrastructure and social license for new technologies
Political Leadership Matters
Trump’s decision to withdraw the US from the Paris Agreement carries significant symbolism and implications. Zaidi believes that this action will sideline the US in the progress needed to make, but notes that it does not spell the end of US climate leadership.
A Long-term Vision
Zaidi is focused on completing several key initiatives during his second term, including:
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Pushing for progress in sectors where escape velocity has not yet been achieved
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Investing in talent and workforce development to support the transition to a clean energy economy
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Building global influence and partnerships to address the climate crisis in a way that works well for US economic interests and national security
A Legacy of Uplift and Hope
Zaidi’s work on climate is not just about reducing greenhouse gas emissions, but about building temples of justice, hope, and purpose. He believes that this administration’s efforts will leave a lasting legacy that continues to inspire and uplift people for generations to come.
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