In a significant move to address the global climate crisis, U.S. Vice President Kamala Harris announced at the UN’s COP28 conference that the United States will pledge $3 billion to the Green Climate Fund (GCF). This commitment marks the first contribution to the fund by the U.S. since 2014.
Speaking at the climate summit in Dubai, Vice President Harris emphasized the importance of taking concrete actions to address the climate crisis. She stated, “Today, we are demonstrating through action how the world can and must meet this crisis.”
The Green Climate Fund, established in 2010, is a crucial financial mechanism designed to support developing countries in their efforts to adapt to and mitigate the impacts of climate change. The fund provides grants and loans for projects ranging from renewable energy initiatives to climate resilience programs in vulnerable regions.
The newly pledged $3 billion from the U.S. is subject to approval by the U.S. Congress, highlighting the domestic political process required for such financial commitments.
Notably, the last U.S. contribution to the Green Climate Fund was made in 2014 under the leadership of then-President Barack Obama, who committed $3 billion. President Joe Biden, represented by Vice President Harris at COP28, reaffirms the U.S. commitment to global climate action.
Before the U.S. announcement, the Green Climate Fund had received pledges totaling $13.5 billion. The fund is a critical component of the broader promise by developed nations to provide $100 billion annually in climate financing to support developing countries in their climate-related efforts.
The issue of financial support from wealthier nations to assist developing countries in climate adaptation and mitigation has been a contentious point in global climate negotiations. The Green Climate Fund serves as a vital instrument in fulfilling these financial commitments, supporting projects that address the consequences of climate change in the most vulnerable regions of the world.
The U.S. pledge comes at a crucial time as nations gather to discuss and negotiate strategies to combat climate change at COP28, underscoring the importance of financial contributions to achieve global climate goals.
For more updates stay tuned to FELA News!
