How Trump’s USAID shutdown threatens the world’s climate goals | The agency was a key player in renewable energy and disaster protection around the world

Extract:

>While criticisms of Trump’s abrupt demolition of USAID have largely focused on global public health projects that have long enjoyed bipartisan support, the effort also threatens billions of dollars meant to combat climate change. USAID’s climate-related funding helps low-income countries build renewable energy and adapt to worsening natural disasters, as well as conserve carbon sinks and sensitive ecosystems. During Joe Biden’s administration, USAID accelerated its climate-focused efforts as part of an [ambitious new initiative](https://www.climatelinks.org/resources/climate-strategy) that was supposed to last through the end of the decade. That effort now appears to have come to an abrupt end as USAID contractors around the world prepare to [abandon critical projects and lay off staff](https://www.nytimes.com/2025/01/31/world/asia/trump-usaid-freeze.html).