May 13, 2017, Washington, DC, USA

In response to the United States’ assessment of its progress delivering on its 2020 climate target under the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC), World Wildlife Fund (WWF) issued the following statement from Mariana Panuncio-Feldman, senior director of international climate cooperation:

"We do not need to choose between addressing climate change and growing our economy. Even under a changing political context, the United States has sustained a decade of economic growth while reducing emissions year after year.

“The free market is already driving our nation’s transition to a clean energy economy. America’s businesses, cities, universities and consumers are true-to-life examples of how the public and private sectors can reduce their climate footprint while simultaneously driving national economic growth.

“We need to continue to pursue smart local and federal policies that can accelerate this shift. Rolling back US commitments to combat climate change stand to hurt critical parts of the American economy, especially innovative sectors that are reaping enormous financial gains by reducing their greenhouse gas emissions, embracing energy efficiency, and investing in renewable energy. Likewise, following through on our international finance commitments is one the most cost-effective ways to ensure both global and our own national security.

“Taking steps to meet our Paris Agreement commitments benefits the US economy and security, and positions our country for continued economic growth and competitiveness."