China, the U.S., and Global Climate Policy: Cooperation, or Competition?

The Biden Administration recently made headlines by announcing a greenhouse gas emissions reduction target for the U.S. of 50% by 2030 (relative to 2005 levels) when hosting a climate summit with world leaders. Indeed, in an executive order (Jan. 27, 2021), President Biden stated that “[i]t is the policy of my Administration that climate considerations shall be an essential element of United States foreign policy and national security.” China, on the other hand, is not only the world’s largest carbon emitter, but also considered by many to be a geopolitical rival to the U.S. It has gained prestige for committing to reaching net zero emissions by 2060, even while its emissions continue to increase significantly in the present. The teleforum will discuss the respective aspirational goals and current efforts of China and the U.S. with regard to climate change mitigation, as well as the legal frameworks within which each government attempts to implement policy. It will then discuss the impact of this issue upon the broader strategic interactions between the two nations, and consider paths forward for U.S. policy. Featuring:Gabriel Collins, Baker Botts Fellow in Energy & Environmental Regulatory Affairs, Center for Energy Studies, Baker InstituteModerator: Dan West, Executive Committee, International and National Security Law Practice Group* * * * * As always, the Federalist Society takes no position on particular legal or public policy issues; all expressions of opinion are those of the speaker.