In a controversial move, President Donald Trump’s administration has shut down the Office of Global Change, the department responsible for representing the United States in UN climate diplomacy. The decision, confirmed by the State Department on Friday, raises serious concerns about the country’s participation in the upcoming COP30 climate summit in Brazil this November.
“We will not participate in international agreements and initiatives that do not reflect our country’s values,” a State Department spokesperson said.
Second Exit from Paris Climate Accord
This move comes as no surprise to many, as Trump—well-known for his skepticism about climate change—already initiated the US withdrawal from the Paris climate agreement for the second time upon returning to office on January 20.
The closure of the climate diplomacy office aligns with the broader restructuring of the State Department under Secretary of State Marco Rubio, who recently announced sweeping reforms, including potential job cuts.
US Absence from COP30?
The elimination of the climate office signals a possible complete absence of the US from the COP30 summit, which would mark a significant shift in global climate diplomacy. Historically, even climate-skeptic presidents like George W. Bush sent representatives to such summits—although often to weaken agreements.
Even if the US sends a low-level delegation, it will starkly contrast the proactive stance of former President Joe Biden, who elevated the climate envoy role to cabinet level and appointed John Kerry to lead international negotiations.
What’s at Stake?
At the COP28 summit in Dubai, Kerry collaborated with China, the world’s largest emitter, to reach a landmark deal urging a global move away from fossil fuels.
Now, with global temperatures already 1.36°C above pre-industrial levels, experts warn that exceeding 1.5°C could lead to catastrophic changes, including frequent climate disasters and mass coral reef loss.
Trump’s decision to disband the office is a symbolic and strategic shift that could undermine years of international climate efforts.
