US formally announces withdrawal from Paris climate agreement

Michael Pompeo says the withdrawal from the Paris climate agreement will take effect a year from today’s notification.

Mike Pompeo has given formal notice of the US withdrawal from the Paris climate agreement. Picture: AP.

The United States has given formal notice of its withdrawal from the Paris Agreement and reaffirmed its commitment to fossil fuels.

A statement issued by US Secretary of State, Michael Pompeo, said the withdrawal will take effect one year from delivery of today’s notification.

President Donald Trump announced in June 2017 that the US would withdraw from the Paris Agreement because of the unfair economic burden imposed on American workers, businesses and taxpayers by US pledges made under the agreement.

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Mr Pompeo said the US had reduced all types of emissions as it grew the economy and ensured access to affordable energy.

“Our results speak for themselves”, Mr Pompeo said.

“US emissions of air pollutants that impact human health and the environment declined by 74 per cent between 1970 and 2018”, he said.

“US net greenhouse gas emissions dropped 13 per cent from 2005-2017, even as our economy grew over 19 per cent.”

Protesters outside the White House after Donald Trump first announced his decision to withdraw from the Paris accord. Picture: AP.

Mr Pompeo said the US approach “incorporates the reality of the global energy mix and uses all energy sources and technologies cleanly and efficiently, including fossils fuels, nuclear energy, and renewable energy.”

He said the US would continue to offer a “realistic and pragmatic model” in international climate discussions.

Mr Pompeo said innovation and open markets would lead to greater prosperity, fewer emissions, and more secure sources of energy.

“We will continue to work with our global partners to enhance resilience to the impacts of climate change and prepare for and respond to natural disasters”, Mr Pompeo said.

“Just as we have in the past, the United States will continue to research, innovate, and grow our economy while reducing emissions and extending a helping hand to our friends and partners around the globe.”