Barack Obama Still Has Hope For Paris Climate Accord
And so do we.
Former President Barack Obama on Tuesday went further in his criticism of Donald Trump’s decision to withdraw the United States from the Paris Climate Accord.
But Obama also noted, during a speech at the Montreal Chamber of Commerce, that he still believes the agreement has a chance of succeeding
“Obviously I’m disappointed with the current American administration decision to put out of Paris,” Obama said.
“We’re going to have to act with more urgency. I’m looking forward to the United States being a leader and not just on the sidelines going forward,” he added.
Obama maintained optimism that states, cities and corporations will continue to carry on with the Paris commitments despite the “temporary absence of American leadership.” A clear shot at Trump.
Obama blasted Trump’s decision last week calling it an abdication of American leadership.
Obama also took on one of Trump main arguments – coal jobs.
“For all those jobs that were lost in coal, many multiples of jobs were gained in the solar industry but those didn’t get advertised,” Obama said.
“History also shows there is a better way,” Obama continued.
“Canada shows, the United States, Europe, Japan show it is possible for us to overcome our fears and to reach across our divides.”
