U.S. President Donald Trump refers to amounts of temperature change as he announces his decision that the United States will withdraw from the landmark Paris Climate Agreement in the Rose Garden of the White House in Washington on Thursday. Photo: Reuters
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Trump announces U.S. withdrawal from Paris climate pact; allies voice dismay

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Mine, too. But their stories don't quite match up with yours. Where does most of your family work?

Some in the "Crenshaw district" and a few in the "Inland Empire" area.

You keep referring to liberals, as if this entire thread are liberals that write up things, 

Not all, but the majority and it's not that I have problems with liberals because they are liberals, I have a problem with Kool aid drinking liberals and the hardcore progressive alt left wing of that branch.

but in truth, this is a cross section of people from the world, not just American liberals who dislike 

Trump's inappropriate behavior, intolerance, and general ignorance. 

I get it and there are millions of conservatives and moderates worldwide that DO like his isolationist stance and anti-global positions and wanting a more independent Europe.

To dismiss global warming is really stupid, and it isn't liberal thinking, it's world opinion of critical.

To some, not all. The Earth survived Dinosaurs, falling meteors, a couple of ice ages, I'm sure, we'll be ok after a few billion years of dealing with all of these confrontations.

thinking based on scientific proof. You can take an alternative fact approach, as many Trump

supporters do, but most of the world knows better not to be dismissive of such narratives.

And that's their opinion. I respect that.

-1 ( +0 / -1 )

I never said, the Russians didn't interfere in our elections and I didn't say, we don't have a problem with our climate, I just am not in a meltdown mode about it.  so your not worried than a foriegn government is controlling the US democratic process or your children's future looks much more bleak due to climate change, gee what do Republicans care about other than War and Guns.

1 ( +1 / -0 )

bass4 funk: You keep referring to liberals, as if this entire thread are liberals that write up things,

but in truth, this is a cross section of people from the world, not just American liberals who dislike

Trump's inappropriate behavior, intolerance, and general ignorance.

To dismiss global warming is really stupid, and it isn't liberal thinking, it's world opinion of critical

thinking based on scientific proof. You can take an alternative fact approach, as many Trump

supporters do, but most of the world knows better not to be dismissive of such narratives.

2 ( +2 / -0 )

This U.S government is such a damn thing.

0 ( +0 / -0 )

most of my family older family members are teaching in the public LA unified school district, I hear this story all the time

Mine, too. But their stories don't quite match up with yours. Where does most of your family work?

1 ( +1 / -0 )

There is already the discussion about a CO2 tax for products from non-contract countries ongoing.

0 ( +0 / -0 )

It is quite telling that one conservative cannot distinguish their opinion from another conservative.

I know, I was just responding to your comment.

-3 ( +0 / -3 )

He's a moron. In his speech, Trump says: "I was elected to represent the citizens of Pittsburg, not Paris."

Hillarious that the Left is stressing how much the President doesn't represent the entire country but only those that voted for him. Not what they were saying when the President was their guy.

-4 ( +0 / -4 )

"I was elected to represent the citizens of Pittsburgh, not Paris," the Republican president said.

It is regrettable how U.S. is becoming more ridiculous every time he is saying something, like if the climate change was something local to France.

2 ( +2 / -0 )

@Bass:

I quoted Dango Bong not you. It is quite telling that one conservative cannot distinguish their opinion from another conservative.

3 ( +3 / -0 )

So now polls are accurate?

Depends. They were about Trump for 2 years in a row and polls are very often subjective and there are so many variables, they give somewhat of indicators depending on what the topic is about, but it is not a sure and complete accurate science.

But, for consistency, the facts of climate change and Russian interference in our elections are "made up." Phew, the polls being accurate made me question your dedication to the conservative cupcake cause.

I never said, the Russians didn't interfere in our elections and I didn't say, we don't have a problem with our climate, I just am not in a meltdown mode about it. There are other things to me that are more troubling and take a higher priority over the other issues.

-5 ( +0 / -5 )

The "scientific research" the left often quotes is bought and paid for.

Research is almost always bought and paid for. People like to get paid for their work. Whether they let the science lead the results or not is a different question.

Also, reporters have a habit of over simplifying scientific papers - looking for the article hook.

0 ( +0 / -0 )

polls show americans care about: jobs (way up), stocks/economy (way up) nobody cares about this non-issue and russia and whatever else the media makes up

So now polls are accurate? But, for consistency, the facts of climate change and Russian interference in our elections are "made up." Phew, the polls being accurate made me question your dedication to the conservative cupcake cause.

2 ( +2 / -0 )

Low turnout is a real problem in the US. Less than a quarter of the adult population is capable of electing a man who is an insult to truth, a disgrace to decency and as we see here, a menace to the entire planet. 

This is true, but the bigger problem is not Trump, he's ok, the problem is, that in the US the entire public school system is run by the progressive far left, the school unions are beholden to the Democratic party, they are one of their biggest donors and besides supporting the DNP, what do the people get, ill-equipped and often inexperienced teachers that clock in to get a paycheck, they teach a one-sided political viewpoint, often NOT challenged, the entire system has completely fallen apart, most of my family older family members are teaching in the public LA unified school district, I hear this story all the time and that's another reason why parents are sending their kids to either private schools or doing home education, Because, at this rate, the situation will only worsen, because younger people are not as interested in geopolitics altogether, not to mention school itself.

This is a man who called global warming a hoax created by the Chinese. It's a disgrace that an individual capable of such stunning stupidity and mindless trash can be making decisions on this vital issue. 

I do have concerns about the climate, but unlike liberals I don't let it control my life, the US has done a great deal to lower carbon emissions and to produce and create alternate energy. I remember a time when I was a kid in Los Angeles back in the 70's when the air was so thick and purple, my eyes would water, it was horrible and the country has made great strides in implementing tighter and more stringent regulations pertaining towards the environment. This was a good move and I'm glad the president has finally put the country first and as he said, he is open to modifying his position as long as it doesn't hinder working Americans, he said, he is open to further negotiations on the matter. so the Dems and the rest of the world should sit down, get a glass of lemonade and chill for a moment.

The fine people of the US need to look at why turnout is so low. A politically engaged population is the best defence against appalling rightist trash. Look at France and the Netherlands for examples.

What about Leftist trash, we have a lot more of that, a lot more.

He's a moron. In his speech, Trump says: "I was elected to represent the citizens of Pittsburg, not Paris."

No, he said that for a particular reason, I think the left needs to read between the lines and stop having an emotional breakdown. He promised the people and especially the workers of Pennsylvania that he would do everything in his power to get them back to work and to put them first and he did just that, the wording might not have been the best of choices, but if you are from the working class of Pittsburg, they are applauding the president

-3 ( +0 / -3 )

MAGA

Y'know, Russia is on the Climate Accord's side

https://www.rt.com/news/390458-russia-paris-climate-change/

"Russia confirms commitment to Paris climate change agreement amid fears of US pullout"

0 ( +0 / -0 )

Syria and Nicaragua are the only other non-participants in the accord.

Syria, Nicaragua, US - the rogue states

1 ( +2 / -1 )

Hallelujah!

-2 ( +1 / -3 )

"Obstructionists?" You control the Senate and House -- how many bills have they put on your desk for you to sign? None -- that is why you have to do everything by Executive Order. And who were the "obstructionists" during the Global Financial Crisis? The pot is calling the kettle "black," folks. And you can say "farewell" to your European allies -- I wonder if they will will turf you out of your military bases...

0 ( +0 / -0 )

Why doesn't he do his homework?

He's a moron. In his speech, Trump says: "I was elected to represent the citizens of Pittsburg, not Paris."

Allegheny County, which encompasses Pittsburgh, actually voted for Hillary Clinton in November — 56 percent to 40 percent. And the city itself voted for Clinton by about 80 percent, according to Mayor Bill Peduto.

1 ( +1 / -0 )

The sane, elite West is finally kicking the loser, apologist left to the curb.

The problem with this comment is the typical Trump voter is not elite.

3 ( +3 / -0 )

Toasted Heretic - sorry but your thinly-veiled wish for mass violence in American cities won't come true.

And "grassroots"?

When Trump was just recently elected President of The United States of America, and none other than Michael Bloomberg gives Trump a 55% chance of a 2nd term, the grassroots have spoken.

Like the grassroots who correctly voted Brexit in the UK.

The sane, elite West is finally kicking the loser, apologist left to the curb.

And it's beautiful to see.

-4 ( +0 / -4 )

a left wing radical

Is Bill Gates one of these?

2 ( +2 / -0 )

And in my opinion Tamarama calling 321 million people "stupid", "myopic" and "ignorant" because half voted for someone she doesn't agree with politically is incredibly small-minded and intolerant.

Oh, come on clamenza. Don't be so precious.

He is their Federally elected political leader. They, and their system elected him. Something like 42% of the country didn't even bother to vote, to wit, take preventative actions against his potential election. There is some complicity in that. It's irresponsible. That kind or irresponsibility has to be subject to collective criticism.

For all the brilliant minds and smart folk in the US, whether they like it or not, this is what they collectively have given us.

It's simply not good enough.

2 ( +3 / -1 )

To Trump followers: How does this help the USA? The CEOs of major companies disagree with Trump. This includes Bill Gates who is about 50x richer than Trump. Also, Genius like Elon Musk. Trump is just a geriatric dream for old white flying Jesus zombie believers (and Jesus is a flying zombie). Please explain how Trump is right and Bill Gates (who is a real billionaire) is wrong. It seems Trump left the Paris pact because he hates Obama and Hillary. No?

1 ( +2 / -1 )

Tamarama calling 321 million people "stupid", "myopic" and "ignorant" because half voted for someone she doesn't agree with politically is incredibly small-minded and intolerant

Half didn't vote. Of the half that voted, less than half voted Trump.

Low turnout is a real problem in the US. Less than a quarter of the adult population is capable of electing a man who is an insult to truth, a disgrace to decency and as we see here, a menace to the entire planet.

This is a man who called global warming a hoax created by the Chinese. It's a disgrace that an individual capable of such stunning stupidity and mindless trash can be making decisions on this vital issue.

The fine people of the US need to look at why turnout is so low. A politically engaged population is the best defence against appalling rightist trash. Look at France and the Netherlands for examples.

2 ( +3 / -1 )

Toasted Heretic - that sounds like a British national praying that some sort of US civil war arises because he disagrees with President Trump's politics.

Well, you're au fait with British nationals, you should know. There's a cold civil war happening right now & Trump's actions can only lead to further misery and division.

Not only is it a pipe dream, but the wished for violence (whatever it takes) that could produce thousands of dead is a chilling reminder of how radicalized the left has become.

Yes, there's that "chilling" comment again. Not sure what it's meant to suggest, though. In the meantime, the Trump support base in and out of the political party will ensure that (by proxy or otherwise) millions of lives globally are put in jeopardy because of climate change.

Now that, is what I call chilling. Terrorism on a truly global scale.

0 ( +1 / -1 )

The myth of human causation of climate costs too much when again the US is expected to pay and provide an umbrella for the rest of the world. The recipients of free stuff are the first to complain when the ride suddenly has a charge.

-4 ( +1 / -5 )

Toasted Heretic - that sounds like a British national praying that some sort of US civil war arises because he disagrees with President Trump's politics.

Not only is it a pipe dream, but the wished for violence (whatever it takes) that could produce thousands of dead is a chilling reminder of how radicalized the left has become.

Tamarama - Guess I caught you in a bad moment you regret. If I kid too hard, I apologize.

-5 ( +0 / -5 )

I'm sure it isn't Tamarama. I'm sure Americans here will all take it as a compliment!

True. Right. I see.

America is currently subjecting me to Donal Trump on a daily basis.

I don't care.

1 ( +2 / -1 )

And that same attitude is what elected Trump last year and will have him serving a second term

The US won't survive this term. It's up to patriotic Americans to stand up to this regime, be it civil disobedience, public disorder, advance on Washington - whatever it takes.

2 ( +3 / -1 )

polls show americans care about: jobs (way up), stocks/economy (way up) nobody cares about this non-issue and russia and whatever else the media makes up

Which polls, specifically?

Nobody cares about the Paris Accord and Russia? I recommend perusing the world media and looking outside the bubble.

There's only so much that the planet can take. Not to mention it's peoples. The future is at stake here; that of millions and millions of lives. It seems the biggest terrorist on the planet is Trump and his organisation of fawning acolytes in the GOP/media/bots.

He's given the bird to the whole world.

2 ( +2 / -0 )

Americans are by and large good people. But the country and its foreign policy is an absolute disaster. 

Criticizing the government and its policies is not the same as criticizing Americans.

Thats opinion, not fact. And in my opinion Tamarama calling 321 million people "stupid", "myopic" and "ignorant" because half voted for someone she doesn't agree with politically is incredibly small-minded and intolerant.

And that same attitude is what elected Trump last year and will have him serving a second term

-6 ( +0 / -6 )

I'm sure it isn't Tamarama. I'm sure Americans here will all take it as a compliment

Americans are by and large good people. But the country and its foreign policy is an absolute disaster.

Criticizing the government and its policies is not the same as criticizing Americans.

4 ( +6 / -2 )

Another empty statement to add to the collusion of climate change deniers.

I don't deny climate change. I don't subscribe to the catastrophic histrionics that the colluding left wing racketeers embarrass themselves with

I just can't respect a country that is so stupid. So myopic. So ignorant.

followed in the next breath with;

this isn't intended to be a personal attack of any kind. 

I'm sure it isn't Tamarama. I'm sure Americans here will all take it as a compliment!

-6 ( +0 / -6 )

polls show americans care about: jobs (way up), stocks/economy (way up) nobody cares about this non-issue and russia and whatever else the media makes up

-5 ( +1 / -6 )

USA! USA!

> Syria and Nicaragua are the only other non-participants in the accord.

Wow. Esteemed company there, USA.

I was elected to represent the citizens of Pittsburgh, not Paris,

The French are far too smart and sophisticated to do anything so stupid.

Meanwhile, on the global warming front:

http://www.bbc.com/news/science-environment-38522954

I'm sorry, but my distain for the US grows daily at present. I can't help it. I'd like things to be different, I really would, but I just can't respect a country that is so stupid. So myopic. So ignorant. I know there are lots of Americans here, and this isn't intended to be a personal attack of any kind. But, this Trump show is just too much. It's not the only factor, but at the moment his 3 ring circus is just appalling. It's bewildering. It's a political Lampoon, except it's not. It's a political parody, except it's not.

The rest of us don't deserve to be subjected to the idiocy. We really don't. It's not fair. It's not right.

1 ( +2 / -1 )

America: when you get tired of this infantile moron destroying your international reputation and domestic institutions, give the rest of us a call. We'll be chilling with Merkel and Macron in the meantime.

Please leave the light on for us.

2 ( +2 / -0 )

Renegotiate exactly what in the agreement ? Very specifically what? The voluntary emissions target? The voluntary contributions? Renegotiate a new agreement with 194 other countries? Absurd.

3 ( +3 / -0 )

Climate is religion, not science to many.

Another empty statement to add to the collusion of climate change deniers.

0 ( +1 / -1 )

Follow the money:

http://resistancereport.com/politics/exxon-paid-republicans-paris/

3 ( +3 / -0 )

Even democracies are capable of putting an idiot in charge.

1 ( +1 / -0 )

For all of the ultra-left out there;

Did you ever stop and ask yourself why Obama never had the Paris Accord brought into congress and made into law?

Hypocrisy much?

The USA and other countries should find ways to reduce POLLUTION (Not carbon footprint) and I do not see how funneling billions of dollars a year into nations doing the worst damage is going to help anything.

This accord has not even set any concrete reduction methods nor penalties for countries that fail to meet reduction targets.

What the hell is the point?!

-3 ( +0 / -3 )

If only the left would do some real research 

What sources did you use for your research?

On the right, GOP lawmakers like James Inhofe walk into congress with a snowball and claim climate change must be a hoax because god is still up there. Inhofe, unlike Trump, didn't specify which country started this hoax as far as I know.

Do you think Trump researched this thouroughly before blaming the Chinese?

2 ( +2 / -0 )

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cVOOMyYde0c

The scam of the Climate treaty in 9 quick and entertaining minutes.

-6 ( +0 / -6 )

Bottom line: the agreement did not require us to do anything. The agreement was not legally binding. But, purely for the sake of appealing to his base, the Orange buffoon withdrew the US from the agreement "justifying" it with spurious claims, misstatements and in the douchiest way possible. Pathetic

0 ( +1 / -1 )

It doesn't solve it. But 97% of the world's scientists agree it's a step toward slowing the problem down. Are those 97% paid off? Who has that kind of money? I can tell you who can and would pay off the remaining 3%...

Paid off? probably not. Research grants withheld? Oh, yes.

Not that many of them need motivation. Climate is religion, not science to many. And if their data doesn't add up, they fudge the numbers such as at NOAA.

-2 ( +1 / -3 )

@Alex Einz

Your answer is not an answer but a diversion... simply put there are not such guidelines.. because it is not meant for ecology in the first place... ,just a back deal.

You may be right, but we don't know for sure. So we have supposed back deals by unknown entities or known back deals by fossil fuel companies. One of those we know for sure about, and that was my point.

@Blacklabel

The more I read the more political this becomes for me.

Just follow the money. Who stands to gain from unrestricted pollution? Hint: Look at the former employers of Trump's cabinet, and think about Trump's reasons for backing out. I think you give him too much credit.

1 ( +1 / -0 )

Next will be fuel efficiency standards and pesky car emission standards abandoned.

Trump is already moving on EPA and clean water. Who needs clean water when there is money to be made?

A little benzene goes a long way.

2 ( +2 / -0 )

The more I read the more political this becomes for me. I dont see anything that guarantees or even suggests that even if everyone does exactly what agreement says (unlikely) that it will save oceans, trees, bees, water or air. Sure all that needs to be done, but how does THIS agreement do it? I dont see it. I see just another way for people to virtue signal that they are caring, good people who love our earth and that anyone against it is a monster. But behind that its just another way to shame countries who actually have natural resources into not using them, thereby harming their own ability to compete in the global economy.

As I said, if this is really that important for the survival of the earth, world leaders would be willing to renegotiate with Trump right? The days of shaming the US President into doing something that is against our best interest are OVAH.

-3 ( +0 / -3 )

There ya have it, folks. Time for bed

If only the left would do some real research instead of trolling ONLY the liberal progressive sites, they could get a better viewpoint.

-5 ( +1 / -6 )

Outside of the science part, I just have two concerns. Who says anyone who signed this will actually pay and the poor countries that get all this money will use this on energy. My understanding is that 100 billion per year to the developing countries is part of the agreement and Obama pledged that the USA would pay 3 billion.

Are other countries really going to pay 97 billion per year every year until 2030? I also read that seeing as India and China are seen as developing countries in this agreement, that they would get some of that 100 billion. Probably a LOT of it, because they are the ones who have the most cleaning up to do. So now it is much more easy to see why China and India are now for this, get other countries to pay to clean up their pollution.

-1 ( +2 / -3 )

https://polarbearscience.com/2015/05/31/global-polar-bear-population-size-is-about-26000-20000-32000-despite-pbsg-waffling/

-4 ( +0 / -4 )

polar bears seem to be doing just fine actually .

http://wwf.panda.org/what_we_do/where_we_work/arctic/wildlife/polar_bear/population/

-4 ( +0 / -4 )

@MrBum .. you didnt answer the following

Is it worth the 100 billion dollars per year that rich countries are going to give to poor ones? Does it make those countries accountable to spend that money on energy not missiles? etc etc.

You know who doesn't care about how poor countries spend money? Oil companies like Exxon Mobile. Under their former head, Rex Tillerson (Trump's Secretary of State), they went behind the US government's back to make a deal with Chad. They didn't care what the dictator did with his money as long as Exxon got the oil rights.

Your answer is not an answer but a diversion... simply put there are not such guidelines.. because it is not meant for ecology in the first place... ,just a back deal.

-4 ( +0 / -4 )

@MrBum very solid commentary, thank you. I just wish this issue had been dominating the news so that we could be really sure that what the USA decided to do is right. Some insight like you provided and some healthy debate would have been helpful instead of 24/7 screaming about Russia.

I can see what you are saying about India and China. They are some of the worst offenders and I guess if you are trying to get them on board with this, you cant make it too difficult at the beginning. Im just concerned that some of the things they agreed to are unrealistic like India said every car will be electric by 2030. I dont see that happening, so at least I give Trump credit for not just signing the agreement then doing nothing. He knows we cant and wont meet what Obama promised, so he just got out of it in good faith and the USA can do their own thing instead.

-3 ( +0 / -3 )

@Blacklabel

So why does this specific agreement and its associated costs solve climate change/global warming issues?

It doesn't solve it. But 97% of the world's scientists agree it's a step toward slowing the problem down. Are those 97% paid off? Who has that kind of money? I can tell you who can and would pay off the remaining 3%...

Is it worth 1 trillion dollars to maybe drop the temp of the world 1 degree in 10 years?

A one-percent drop would be great. We're already at the point where some islands and coastal regions are "sinking." Things not getting worse would be an achievement in itself.

Why are China and India allowed to sign but they dont actually have to do anything to reduce emissions for a decade?

They're developing countries that are relatively new to the pollution game. The US has been the world leader for decades and is still in second place. Maybe that's why we pay more.

Is it worth the 100 billion dollars per year that rich countries are going to give to poor ones? Does it make those countries accountable to spend that money on energy not missiles? etc etc.

You know who doesn't care about how poor countries spend money? Oil companies like Exxon Mobile. Under their former head, Rex Tillerson (Trump's Secretary of State), they went behind the US government's back to make a deal with Chad. They didn't care what the dictator did with his money as long as Exxon got the oil rights.

None of this debate every happened due in part to the media obsession with But Russia!

This debate has been going since way before Russia. In fact, research conducted in the 70s by Exxon Mobil themselves was some of the first to hint at man-made climate change. They spent the following decades desperately denying their own results and confusing the debate though. And these are the same people that oppose agreements like the one in the article.

2 ( +2 / -0 )

Paris climate accord is a joke ,with no damages or actual reduction targets... just a veil to channel extra cash into.

To be honest , I am not really sure why he needed to do such a show off action... doing absolutely nothing while signing the agreement would be easier politically.

-7 ( +0 / -7 )

I will restate the fact I think what Trump did is idiotic and the U.S. should maintain a position of agreeing to abide by the non-binding treaty. On the other hand I have big problems with people saying you cannot question this type of science.

Questioning a theory is fine. Questioning scientific evidence? For sure but one is on shakier ground. Yes, of course, the finer details may be out a couple of decades but in the long, long, history of the world; that's just a blink of an eyelid. Perhaps humanity is, too and it doesn't matter what mankind does or doesn't do. Humanity is the architect of its own destruction and in the end, so what? Maybe it's just vanity to believe we can control our excesses and the environment. Maybe it's inherent human nature to think short term and get what's available while the goings good.

If people (not you, btw) can dismiss the environmental concerns and evidence as propaganda/left wing/a new religion/liberal bs/paid for etc etc, that's their right.

But for the same individuals to claim they are concerned about the global threat of terror... that's just taking the proverbial. The legacy of massive environmental change could leave millions upon millions in peril.

1 ( +1 / -0 )

The USA has decreased their emissions significantly, and it would be even more if it were not for Hollywood people.

There ya have it, folks. Time for bed.

2 ( +2 / -0 )

@Toasted Heretic - what do you mean by "legitimise climate denial". Is it not acceptable to question the hypothesis in any way? Even those inside the climate community have changed their predictions and even gone so far as to re-name the phenomenon (from global warming to climate change). Some of the radical predictions made did not come to fruition in the stated time frames. Does this mean man made climate change is a non issue? No, I do not feel that way at all. There are some climate scientists who believe we are on the precipice of another min ice age and make some pretty compelling arguments.

I will restate the fact I think what Trump did is idiotic and the U.S. should maintain a position of agreeing to abide by the non-binding treaty. On the other hand I have big problems with people saying you cannot question this type of science. However this subject has become so politicized that daring to even question the latest "predictions" even if you agree with the overall trends, makes on a pariah.

I have an issue with that. I think it is best to stake your claims and if people disagree then refute arguments with factual scientific data.

-1 ( +0 / -1 )

The "scientific research" the left often quotes is bought and paid for.

Often heard claim, thoroughly debunked and the idea that science is "left" is bunk.

http://www.independent.co.uk/environment/royal-society-global-warming-climate-change-benefits-matt-ridley-michael-mann-a7372306.html

https://www.theguardian.com/environment/2016/sep/14/debunking-malcolm-roberts-the-case-against-a-climate-science-denier

1 ( +1 / -0 )

So far 3 major US cities back the Paris agreement from the news. one is NY.

3 ( +3 / -0 )

Yeah, why is Elon Musk so mad about it? He is going to lose billion dollars of government subsidies, which is both how he makes his money and why his companies are even worth anything at all.

http://www.latimes.com/business/la-fi-hy-musk-subsidies-20150531-story.html

Tesla and SolarCity continue to report net losses after a decade in business, but the stocks of both companies have soared on their potential; Musk's stake in the firms alone is worth about $10 billion. (SpaceX, a private company, does not publicly report financial performance.)

Musk and his companies' investors enjoy most of the financial upside of the government support, while taxpayers shoulder the cost.

-3 ( +1 / -4 )

The "scientific research" the left often quotes is bought and paid for.

-3 ( +1 / -4 )

What does it matter? Nothing will change. Backing out of the agreement could prove a lengthy process, one that would end the day after the 2020 presidential election, when Trump might just be up for re-election. There's a four-year rule, a three-year waiting period before a country could withdraw and then a one-year waiting period after that keeps a country from backing out of the Paris agreement immediately. Since Trump reportedly plans to adhere to that process, the U.S. would be able to exit on November 2020.

0 ( +0 / -0 )

@MrBum - In your post you indicated " I hear this complaint a lot from those on the right and those on the left. Yes, we all need to do our part, but what we do as individuals, even self-important bigwigs, is minuscule compared to what entire industries spew out."

I am American (albeit living in Japan) and I am one of those that makes that complaint. I will use my home country as an example. In 2015 the U.S. EPA reported that only 21% of CO2 emissions come from industry and 29% from the generation of electricity. The other 50% is from consumption related to residences, transportation (largely automobiles in the U.S.) and a bit of agriculture.

That said, if we add up what we all spew out as individuals (including the so called "big wigs") it is quite significant. In fact the recent trend has shown the industrial and electrical generation emissions continuing to decrease while emissions related to personal consumption increase.

Considering the above, you and I in general are in agreement....all of that said I am for reducing CO2 output in a gradual and controlled way which provides minimal disruption to economies and minimal pain (i.e. from a regressive carbon tax) to those with low incomes.

0 ( +0 / -0 )

Stuff like this happens because Republicans mostly just talk to each other. I don't think they quite get just how isolated they are from the rest of America on this issue, and pretty much the entire world.

I don't know about that, I travel a lot between Japan and the US and I get around quite a bit because of my job, I went to 12 states this year and so far from what I have personally seen and beyond the typical liberal moonbats, the conservatives are not the ones isolated or in the dark, in fact, they seemed more determined and angrier by what the media and the left are doing, even people that don't necessarily like Trump think it's a bit overkill now.

-8 ( +1 / -9 )

The onslaught on the environment will only accelerate, all in order to line the pockets of big business. Which will lead to mass Yeah ive disasters, mass migration, crop shortages, famine and conflict.

except it's not reality. There is simply no scientific evidence that any of those things will happen.

Its all just more alarmist threats from the regressive left. The rainforests were supposed to be extinct according to alarmists 15-20 years ago. No change.

The poor polar bears were supposed to be drowned into extinction from a lack of ice. There's plenty of ice and even more polar bears.

We were all supposed to be swimming to work today according to the same loons just 10 years ago.

But Leo dicaprio steps off his private jet today to announce the world is ending and its fact.

-3 ( +0 / -3 )

Surely the biggest environmental damage culprits should be accountable, more so, than other countries?

Sure, but look at the air pollution in India and China. The USA had nothing whatsoever to do with that. The USA has decreased their emissions significantly, and it would be even more if it were not for Hollywood people. USA can do whatever they need to do to keep their own air clean by using technology from US companies, then also sell that to other countries who need it.

It seems to me that the world is saying that the USA as the leader of the world has an obligation to help China and India and others have clean air. I dont agree. I want to know how this specific agreement as written, with its financial obligations that USA would agree to, is in the best interest of the USA. Or is this just another save the world type thing that the USA is expected to pay for on behalf of others who can pay but wont?

-6 ( +1 / -7 )

Stuff like this happens because Republicans mostly just talk to each other. I don't think they quite get just how isolated they are from the rest of America on this issue, and pretty much the entire world.

2 ( +2 / -0 )

Also, the common man heard little to nothing about any of this until Trump said he was dropping out. Then it was all personal attacks on Trump and very little about the agreement itself. That is what I have been saying as one of the reasons why this nonstop Russia nonsense needs to stop, it is affecting the ability to learn about and debate things that actually matter.

So why does this specific agreement and its associated costs solve climate change/global warming issues? Is it worth 1 trillion dollars to maybe drop the temp of the world 1 degree in 10 years? Why are China and India allowed to sign but they dont actually have to do anything to reduce emissions for a decade? Is it worth the 100 billion dollars per year that rich countries are going to give to poor ones? Does it make those countries accountable to spend that money on energy not missiles? etc etc.

None of this debate every happened due in part to the media obsession with But Russia! (Oh and by the way did Russia sign this? If so doesnt that once again prove Trump is not a Putin puppet?)

-3 ( +1 / -4 )

If you are unwilling, then obviously this is just looking for a sucker to pay for something you want.

Surely the biggest environmental damage culprits should be accountable, more so, than other countries?

0 ( +1 / -1 )

but what we do as individuals, even self-important bigwigs, is minuscule compared

Totally agree. But it has to start somewhere and it can start with them. Set an example as a leader/celebrity/whatever instead of just tweeting hate towards Trump about it.

As far as the world leaders who are so sad about this, I have this to say. If this is so important that the whole world will be destroyed forever if it isnt done, then prove it to me. Prove it to me by sitting down and renegotiating in a way that Trump can accept to rejoin. If you are unwilling, then obviously this is just looking for a sucker to pay for something you want. Would any legitimate leader of the world not be able to put their pride over losing a renegotiation to Trump to the side in order to prevent world destruction?

-1 ( +1 / -2 )

The biggest story is the one untold. And that is that Donald Trump managed to keep an enormous political promise in the face of overwhelming opposition. He could have gone along with the Paris agreement, and told everyone that it was an economic and political reality that he could not oppose. But he kept his word, which was the last thing which I expected. I much prefer someone keep a bad promise than find an excuse not to keep it. I have more respect for Trump than I formerly did. The world's politicians are having kittens right now.

0 ( +2 / -2 )

So when Trump said make America great, he meant just like Syria and Nicaragua?

More like LA or Oakland

I have long said, mistakenly it turns out, that Trump the aging baby boomer wanted to take the US back to the 1950's. Instead it seems he wants to take the US farther back, back to the the late 19th, early 20th century,

I think he wants to take us into the 21at century, but the last president and over 30 of his government funded futuristic pet projects went belly up like a beached whale.

The country formerly known as the United States will soon join the ranks of other failed empires.

Empire? Seriously??? ROFL

Republicans: you broke it, you own it. 

I think Trump fixed it actually. Thank God!

Say thanks to your Russian friends for their aid.

How do you they were involved? Did you know collusion is not a crime?

-8 ( +1 / -9 )

They are the same hypocrites who demand more immigration

Are you an immigrant? Why is your plight more important than others?

-1 ( +1 / -2 )

Takes some huge cojones to ignore the histrionics of the left and make a sane, measured and logical decision like Trump just did to pull out of one of the biggest scams in recent history.

Cojones I wish more world leaders had

Right wing, head in the sand propaganda.

The onslaught on the environment will only accelerate, all in order to line the pockets of big business. Which will lead to massive disasters, mass migration, crop shortages, famine and conflict.

1 ( +2 / -1 )

Blacklabel- so true. They are the same hypocrites who demand more immigration, but when you ask them if they would sponsor one;

"uhhh not a good time for me. We're remodeling the kitchen "

-5 ( +0 / -5 )

Funny I havent seen any tweets from anyone saying they are giving up their SUV or private plane in order to do their part. All I have seen is self important people resigning from committees. Thats good, then less travel for them to go to meetings, which reduces their own carbon footprint.

I hear this complaint a lot from those on the right and those on the left. Yes, we all need to do our part, but what we do as individuals, even self-important bigwigs, is minuscule compared to what entire industries spew out. These agreements are aimed at curbing industrial emissions.

But yeah, more video conferences wouldn't hurt.

3 ( +3 / -0 )

TTthe insane Republican party whoops

1 ( +1 / -0 )

TThe insane de party has been the biggest threat to the world for some time.

TThey are a disgrace. Like the orange vulgarian that directs the Asylum.

3 ( +3 / -0 )

Funny I havent seen any tweets from anyone saying they are giving up their SUV or private plane in order to do their part. All I have seen is self important people resigning from committees. Thats good, then less travel for them to go to meetings, which reduces their own carbon footprint.

-6 ( +2 / -8 )

Takes some huge cojones to ignore the histrionics of the left and make a sane, measured and logical decision like Trump just did to pull out of one of the biggest scams in recent history.

Cojones I wish more world leaders had

-6 ( +1 / -7 )

it will be an irony that good ol' capitalism come out and save the day at last, because clean energy is becoming a huge economy now.

4 ( +4 / -0 )

My opinion is that Trump was correct to get out of this deal. if it was such a good deal why did Obama just unilaterally agree to join without bothering to have debate in Congress and have an actual vote?

Seems this is another one of these scams where the USA is 1 of 195 members yet pays 18% of the total cost. If this is soooo important to the survival of our earth, then:

Why did France and Germany immediately start their bullying tactics and say there will be no renegotiation. if it is that important to our survival that the USA be a part of this then why wouldnt they? They just seem to be mad that now they will have to pay their fair share for something that would hurt the US economy and job market. Nothing says any of these countries who signed this will actually pay. (See NATO)

Does no one think there wont be a technological solution in place by time any negative impact (if there actually is one occurs? Bill Gates has been working on controlling the weather since 2009 and has patents. Why spend billions of US taxpayer dollars for something that technology will probably solve in 5-10 years anyway?

Also, I dont see any celebrities doing anything but whining. Ride an airplane with others, ditch your motorcade of SUVs. Why arent you selling your your ocean front property if you really think it will be underwater in 5 years because of this?

-8 ( +1 / -9 )

This will be a day I think Americans will look back to in shame. In future I'm guessing actions like this will be a crime against humanity

3 ( +3 / -0 )

I sometimes teach syncopated toadyism to my corporate students. This, from Trump's EPA chief, Scott Pruitt, I'll have to save as teaching material:

Your decision today to exit the Paris accord reflects your unflinching commitment to put America first....fulfilling yet one more campaign promise....fortitude, courage, steadfastness....America finally has a leader who answers only to the people....fighting for the forgotten men and women across this country....champion of the hardworking citizens all across this land....historic restoration of American economic independence....it takes courage, it takes commitment to say no to the plaudits of men while doing right by the American people. You have that courage.

How are efforts proceeding to fill those administration positions that no one with concern regarding their future would ever take, by the way?

4 ( +4 / -0 )

I see from the picture Donald has discovered the true size of his brain.

He's doing this solely for big oil and coal, and when the children of the world are choking as a result, those who support him and a few people getting work at the present because they are too lazy and outdated to search for anything else, they can just shrug and say, "Wasn't me?" and "Who'da thunk it?"

4 ( +4 / -0 )

As an American, I must apologize to the rest of the world for our current president's lack of decency, his arrogance, his stupidity, lack of moral fiber, his selfishness and narrow mindedness. Father thinks he knows best, when even his children know better.

We don't have to apologize for the idiot's choices, we have to focus on damage control and getting out of the pit the fools have dug us into. I refuse to apologize for other's foolishness, I've to suffer more than enough from idiotic choices of others.   Only own what you've done yourself, don't own up to others mistakes.

Corporate American companies can ignore Trump and stick with advancing green tech etc in line with the Paris agreement so we don't fall behind.

2 ( +2 / -0 )

As an American, I must apologize to the rest of the world for our current president's lack of decency, his arrogance, his stupidity, lack of moral fiber, his selfishness and narrow mindedness. Father thinks he knows best, when even his children know better.

Kind of you but no apology needed. Americans are not one homogenous blob and there are many, many who did not vote for this out of control administration who should not have to apologise when their Govt or those claiming to represent them carry out risible and absurd acts.

Those who cheerlead as the administration decides that the fate of the planet is less important than big business, on the other hand...

2 ( +2 / -0 )

@Superlib

Just because the GOP is in a very small minority doesn't necessarily mean they are wrong. The security of consensus can be a false one.

The issue is quality rather than quantity. Sometimes you have to bow to the deep insights and sheer intellectual weight of individuals regardless of what the masses believe.

Here's such an example from GOP lawmaker James Inhofe. Climate change is a myth because "God's still up there."

4 ( +4 / -0 )

Move with the times or get left behind ... this is another step backwards for America.

Your next president is going to have his work cut out for him or her.

4 ( +4 / -0 )

I knew this would be an entertaining and interesting discussion. Very politicized issue.

A few more thoughts

I still hold my same perspective: Trump is an idiot for doing indicating the U.S. will not participate in this non-binding agreement. He has lost negotiating room and credibility. I think human beings should curtail emissions of CO2, including the elites such as Trump, the Koch Brothers, DiCaprio, the Pope, President Obama, Al Gore, and all others. Not only we minions.

Also, I still think the U.S. should be part of this agreement (non-binding), which allows China and India to build more than 100 coal fired power plants each. By the way, Russia is even part of this agreement.

On the other hand, as a scientist, it is tiresome hearing, "the science is settled". It is not "settled". This defies the scientific method I was taught. If one reads a peer reviewed paper, by J.-M. Barnola, D. Raynaud, C. Lorius from the Laboratoire de Glaciologie et de Géophysique de l'Environnement, CNRS, in France it would appear this is not "settled". This is an analysis of the Vostok Ice Core in Antarctica. This is the oldest ice core sampled and it shows a constant trend of increasing and decreasing CO2 levels over a 400,000 year period of time. No, this was not paid for by the oil companies by the way.

If one looks at the data in the paper it does not refute anthropometric Climate Change nor does it prove it. What it does do is indicate this cycle has occurred 4 times over a 400,000 period.

To me what this study does show is that we do not know if global warming will continue to occur or if this will again reverse.

As a scientist/engineer my thoughts on this are that we should gradually reduce our emissions of CO2. Other mechanisms can be used to do this rather than a regressive carbon tax. Also I wish they would stop with some of the more radical claims (such as in the "Inconvenient Truth") and engage in a more rationale dialogue. Also if this issue was as urgent as people claim it is one would thing those pushing for the global carbon tax would not emit so much carbon, even when travelling to environmental conferences.

0 ( +2 / -2 )

From the idiots who brought you "Trump Care", where millions can no longer afford health insurance. Now brace yourself for the next incrediulous chapter of stupidity- "Trump Climate". Where the world ends and everyone dies.

["We don't want other leaders and other countries laughing at us any more. And they won't be," Trump added]

My God, look at him... The poor devil... He really doesn't know does he...? The world and just about everyone in the US has been and will continue to laugh at him.

["I was elected to represent the citizens of Pittsburgh, not Paris," the Republican president said.]

So you mean to tell me he is the President of Pittsburg? Well who the hell is running the rest of the country!?

[Republican U.S. congressional leaders backed Trump. Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell applauded Trump "for dealing yet another significant blow to the Obama administration's assault on domestic energy production and jobs."]

So anything basically not oil or coal is foreign!? Solar, wind, etc. is domestic! And this should have nothing to do with the Obama administration. When something is good or at least better then what you can come up with, leave it be.

[Trump said his administration would begin negotiations either to re-enter the Paris accord or to have a new agreement"on terms that are fair to the United States, its businesses, its workers, its people, its taxpayers."]

Has he been taking pointers from Abe? So what he actually means is delaying and nit picking so nothing good can come about it as Reps usually do and really just wait for the next president to step up and do the right thing.

[With Trump's action, the United States will walk away from nearly every nation in the world on one of the pressing global issues of the 21st century. Syria and Nicaragua are the only other non-participants in the accord.]

So "America First" really means we are like Syria and Nicaragua... Jesus of Nazareth H Christ!

As an American, I must apologize to the rest of the world for our current president's lack of decency, his arrogance, his stupidity, lack of moral fiber, his selfishness and narrow mindedness. Father thinks he knows best, when even his children know better.

7 ( +7 / -0 )

Syria and Nicaragua are the only other non-participants in the accord.

So when Trump said make America great, he meant just like Syria and Nicaragua?

I have long said, mistakenly it turns out, that Trump the aging baby boomer wanted to take the US back to the 1950's. Instead it seems he wants to take the US farther back, back to the the late 19th, early 20th century, back to the days when the robber barons were allowed to plunder unchecked and could pollute at will, back to the days when they could send ships to poor countries and fill them with workers who were treated like slaves, slaves with no legal protection. And if the workers objected to their conditions, the robber barons would call in Pinkerton to have them shot, then send more ships to different countries to bring in other workers. The 99% are expendable, fungible assets at best.

However, a difference between then and now was eventually other Americans stood up to the robber barons. They could use the system of checks and balances to limit them - somewhat. Now with The Party and the oligarch in chief in charge, it looks like it's too late. The robber barons can plunder unfettered. The country formerly known as the United States will soon join the ranks of other failed empires.

Republicans: you broke it, you own it. Say thanks to your Russian friends for their aid.

4 ( +5 / -1 )

That's a non-sequitur. You talk as if the president is elected through the will of the people.

No, I'm talking about how the Dems try and focus on problem solving instead of spewing hate and opposition? Meaning, if Dems really want to show that they are different, how about coming up with real ideas instead of the same old rusted ideas of taxing people or punishing the job creators, give some incentives, put American people first instead of the party first which has completely fell apart. Forget Hillary, the election is over, done and she's not coming or never will be president, the real question is, instead of frothing at the mouth, how will Democrats make things better?

He isn't. He's elected through the will of the electoral college.

And that's our system and that's all that matters, Dems had their chance to win, even the College Electorate and they didn't. The left needs to man up and work on possible ideas and solutions and stop whining, it's not going to help them or the country.

Start by winning a lot of elections, if that happens, you guys will have legitimate gripe, other than that, enjoy the next 4-8 years

-14 ( +1 / -15 )

In this photo, Trump shows us, yet again, how much intellect and foresight he really has has.

5 ( +5 / -0 )

The depth of the opposition to Trump really is breathtaking. I'm reading about the different people and companies who supported the Paris Accords and it's just staggering. Scroll down to the signature section, such a variety of industries:

https://www.c2es.org/docUploads/dear-mr-president-nyt-05-16-17.pdf

Plus you have Elon Musk, Bob Iger at Disney, the CEOs of General Electric, Intel, Facebook, Google, Dow Chemical, and freaking ExxonMobile. And, of course, 95%+ of scientists and the rest of the entire world.

But yeah, it's all a big scam and only the GOP has figured it out. Those plucky little conservatives.

7 ( +7 / -0 )

Bass: Yeah, well apparently, there are more people that don't think so, otherwise, Dems would be on a winning streak, they aren't which one can take these so called percentages that they keep repeating is totally false

Instead of waiting for others to post and ambushing them, why not put pen to paper and give your opinion about the topic at hand? It's important, and surely you can write a few sentences about it.

8 ( +8 / -0 )

Someday, the Don's gotta learn that there are no actions without consequences.

He probably won't. He's old, and the lesson likely won't be apparent until after he's dead, which at his age probably isn't too far off in the future.

well apparently, there are more people that don't think so, otherwise, Dems would be on a winning streak, they aren't which one can take these so called percentages that they keep repeating is totally false because if the vast so called majority would object, the Dems would be winning elections left and right and that's not happening

That's a non-sequitur. You talk as if the president is elected through the will of the people. He isn't. He's elected through the will of the electoral college, irrespective of the will of the people. Therefore your conclusion that the democratics would be on a winning streak if that's what the people wanted is not backed up by fact.

0 ( +4 / -4 )

Well he was elected. And he promised to do what he just did. But you people make it sound like that's what the people wanted. Remember, not only did the people not choose him (they chose her), only 20% of Americans voted for him.

Yeah, well apparently, there are more people that don't think so, otherwise, Dems would be on a winning streak, they aren't which one can take these so called percentages that they keep repeating is totally false because if the vast so called majority would object, the Dems would be winning elections left and right and that's not happening, so the consensus seems to be a false narrative drummed up by the desperate and whining liberals and Dems once again.

-14 ( +1 / -15 )

Donchan seems keen on putting the workforce back into the underground toxic carbon holes that the rest of the world is moving away from. Good luck finding a buyer for all that stuff in a decade's time.

5 ( +5 / -0 )

America pulled out and now European Countries are lining up wanting to renegotiate a new deal. Go figure.

Actually the European reaction seems to be "OK then, we'll take the lead on this without you."

Nice to see someone stepping up to take charge in the world. Good for them.

8 ( +9 / -1 )

The world moves on without the US. No hissy fits or sadness or even consternation - on the contrary - all smiles:

http://www.independent.co.uk/news/world/americas/us-politics/paris-agreement-trump-angela-merkel-defence-essential-pact-germany-a7767936.html

5 ( +6 / -1 )

Trump has just ceded global leadership to California Gov. (and onetime presidential aspirant) Gerry Brown.

Someday, the Don's gotta learn that there are no actions without consequences.

6 ( +7 / -1 )

America pulled out and now European Countries are lining up wanting to renegotiate a new deal. Go figure.

-4 ( +2 / -6 )

One last plus is that it's a huge issue for younger voters so we've done a good job in educating them. We just have to wait for the older GOP members to fade out.

The overwhelming dominance of Bernie Sanders among younger voters, even women and people of color, is the one positive takeaway from last year's depressing results. That so many young people are unafraid of using terms like socialist or social-democrat is also hugely encouraging. A far cry from the time even a decade ago when Dem voters were afraid to say they were liberal. That said, older conservatives will always be a force to be reckoned with, unless of course austerity ghouls like Paul Ryan get their way. Nothing like dismantling the New Deal to get the oldsters to remember their youthful idealism and commitment to their fellow man.

3 ( +4 / -1 )

He has called climate change a hoax.

A hoax created by the Chinese to be exact. I don't think he believes that anymore. He now likes Xi since the 10-minute crayon and paper lesson on North Korea.

Incidentally, what is Trump's position on this now? Is he with the snowball-carrying GOP headbangers or is this just a '#### it, who cares?' approach?

Hard to keep up with this jellyfish.

6 ( +8 / -2 )

Instead of walking forward, the U.S. is walking backwards.

6 ( +9 / -3 )

@Tex

global cooling will be reduced by grand total of 0.02 degrees Celsius in 100 years.

Uhh, maintaining current levels for 100 years is a pretty big achievement... How much do you think the total increase would be if we did nothing?

3 ( +5 / -2 )

It looks like a lot of companies, states, and cities will follow along with the plans, so that's good. Trump mostly just removed himself and the GOP from the picture and they can sit on the sidelines if they want to.

That being said, they have a bit of a mean streak about the environment, so I expect Republicans to sabotage America's efforts to improve. We'll have to account for that. One last plus is that it's a huge issue for younger voters so we've done a good job in educating them. We just have to wait for the older GOP members to fade out.

6 ( +7 / -1 )

In haste: What can we do but pray for a sun spot?

-1 ( +0 / -1 )

Remember when righties accused Obama of being the weak laughingstock of the world? Trump is literally being laughed at openly by world leaders (the authoritarian leaders he kisses up to probably laugh at him behind closed doors). Trump is arm wrestling when everyone else is playing chess.

6 ( +8 / -2 )

@sere, 8:43 a.m.,

You may want to want to track down the MIT assessment report after the agreement was signed. In it, it says that after spending more than $17 trillion, global cooling will be reduced by grand total of 0.02 degrees Celsius in 100 years.

President Trump is correct in walking away from this globalist Ponzi scheme. . . .

-5 ( +5 / -10 )

Tokyo Engr, you're right. I was just riffing on Aggie's line about "redistribution of America's wealth to everyone but Americans," which tracks well with how the right frames their overall economic messaging, that the undeserving are taking opportunities and resources from the deserving.

2 ( +4 / -2 )

Wealth redistribution, gift wrapped in climate change, so all the loonie left will buy into it. People look into the details..it is not about CO2 it is about $$. How many of you have even read or understand it?

-6 ( +2 / -8 )

Trump was elected promising to do what he just did.

Well he was elected. And he promised to do what he just did. But you people make it sound like that's what the people wanted. Remember, not only did the people not choose him (they chose her), only 20% of Americans voted for him.

3 ( +8 / -5 )

Trump was elected promising to do what he just did. I can find fault with him for a great many things, and even if I disagree with his pulling out of the Paris agreement, I am very surprised that he kept his word to do so. No other politician would have kept such a promise, and it shocking to see president keep his word on such a matter, agree with it or not. Many people see his decision as tragic, but for a person who expects all politicians to lie about all things at all times, I am quite amazed.

And if any American out there is unhappy with Trump's decision, you should have voted. Most of you who supported Hillary and disliked Trump never bothered to go to the polls and cast your vote, it was too much trouble for you. And this being the case, it is your fault, not Trump's, that the Paris agreement is dead. Because, without the world's top economy as a member, it is truly dead. Stop blaming Trump, and start blaming yourselves.

The Paris agreement had less do to about global warming or climate change than it did for the top 1% of the top 1% to further cement their holds on the world's economies. A handful of business and banks now own veritable monopolies in their respective economies. The Paris agreement would increase the political/business ties, and allow businesses to earn much of their income in the form of state subsidies in place of the old-fashioned way of selling goods for a profit. The corporatists supported the Paris agreement for this reason.

If anyone here (anyone? anyone?) has even bothered to look at the Paris agreement, you'll see that in the best case scenario, provided the hundreds of billions siphoned out of the world's economies (taxpayers) by the state, and distributed to the politically-connected industries charged to created carbon-capture technology, at best only a slowing of projected warming can be achieved. And this slowing depends almost entirely on developing technologies which do not exist today (that the "pause" which was much in the news prior to 2016 seems now to have returned, and that global temperatures are not currently rising is overlooked).

In the short term, meeting the treaty requirements would mean that industrial production in developed countries would either have to have been greatly modernized at large expense (which is difficult when economic growth around the world is barely treading water), or increasingly outsourced to China, India, and other developing countries which were not to be bound by emissions goals.

Besides the large transfers of jobs to developing countries, there would have been the large transfers of cash. This cash would have gone mainly into the pockets of the corporatists.

Here is some food for thought. Human activity contributes some 3% of CO2 to the atmosphere. The current CO2 level is about 400 ppm. Over the last 65 million years, the average level of CO2 in the atmosphere has been 2500 ppm. The all time record for CO2 concentration was around 7000 ppm. The low record was around 200 ppm. The increase in CO2 we have seen over the past few decades is small, however alarming it is to some. But nature is already compensating, satellite images show increased "greening" around the world as plants react to increased CO2. The optimal level for plant photosynthesis is around 1200 ppm. Overlooked by many is that the optimal level of CO2 for plants is likely the optimal level for all life on earth.

You cannot fight climate change, because change is the climate's natural state. Sea levels vary greatly, having been as much as 400 feet lower than they are now, to some 400 feet higher, and human activity had nothing to do with these great changes. The climate always changes, and it always will.

-11 ( +5 / -16 )

@jcjapan - Not sure what this has to do with "poor brown people". First of all I think Trump is completely foolish for pulling out of this agreement...fully agree on that. On the other hand it is the elites that actually want the non binding treaty to remain in place and want a global carbon tax (even the oil companies are against Trump on this). Such a tax would actually eventually be regressive and hurt poor people more than the wealthy (who can very well afford to travel around in their private planes, etc.). I see this topic having nothing at all to do with "brown" or "black"people, the poorist of which would be negatively impacted economically by this treaty.

Although I disagree with Wolfpack where he says it is an easy call to back out of the treaty, I do fully agree with some of the facts he presents in his post, which makes some valid points which should be taken into consideration.

In the end I still believe this was an extremely dumb move by Trump as he now has no room for negotiation at all.

-2 ( +0 / -2 )

America: when you get tired of this infantile moron destroying your international reputation and domestic institutions, give the rest of us a call. We'll be chilling with Merkel and Macron in the meantime.

7 ( +9 / -2 )

I would have no pbm with the us withdrawing from the Paris treaty IF Trump had reaffirmed his commitment to fight climate change and said he wanted to do it 'his own way', with more drastic measures, more adapted to the us economy and American ppl but with a similar or even better end result. Not the case here, the bloke thinks global warming is a hoax and all's fine. 

Imo such decision sends the wrong message to individuals, small corporations etc all around the world i.e "why bother recycling & doing our bit if the big guys don't even care?" Very irresponsible, move.

5 ( +7 / -2 )

it is about redistribution of America's wealth to everyone but Americans

Funny, I thought it was about the ongoing redistribution of wealth upward from the working classes to the predatory 1%. But comments such as yours help us to see how hardworking Americans have their rage misdirected towards poor brown people at home and abroad, anywhere but the plutocrats gleefully dismantling the American dream. The only class warfare that's been taking place in the US over the last 37 years has been waged by elites against working people. When you're cheering on titans of industry as if their interests are your interests, you are painfully deceived.

8 ( +10 / -2 )

Texas

That's 2 degrees NOT 0.02 degrees, a huge difference.

9 ( +10 / -1 )

Bravo, President Trump. This "agreement" was never about reducing global warming (all 0.02 degrees by the year 2100) ; it is about redistribution of America's wealth to everyone but Americans. The world will just have to find another pocket to pick.

Let the globalist hissy fit begin. . . .

-16 ( +6 / -22 )

Fact: US CO2 emissions have been reduced to 1992 levels due to the free market shale gas extraction revolution. Germany is building new coal and gas power plants to replace the nuclear plants they voluntarily shut down and their CO2 emissions have increased in recent years. By 2030 India will double the number of coal power plants and this vast increase in CO2 emissions is "allowed" by the agreement.

The Paris Treaty does a lot of things but was it does not do is reduce CO2 emissions. At best it only asks developed countries to reduce CO2 emissions and developing countries are not limited at all. So Germany can violate the agreement and India and China can do nothing. At the same time these countries can slam the US who have already reduced CO2 emissions to 1992 levels. Withdrawal from the Paris Shame Treaty is an easy call.

-6 ( +7 / -13 )

U.S. President Donald Trump on Thursday said he will withdraw the United States from the landmark 2015 global agreement to fight climate change, spurning pleas from U.S. allies and corporate leaders in an action that fulfilled a major campaign pledge.

One aspect/action U.S. President Donald Trump cannot be condemned or vilified for, actually sticking to campaign promises and pledges he was elected democratically to carry out. Now that's a first for any politician let alone a elected President.

-2 ( +6 / -8 )

Solid move. The treaty is a scam

-12 ( +9 / -21 )

This guy is EVEN WORSE than GW Bush.

I don't know about that.

You agree that GW was a bad president. Good.

How so?

Twiiter, his inability to filter and think before he opens his mouth, he changes his mind after about 3.141 seconds (China is bad. Meets with Xi. China isn't so bad.), etc.

I don't think a lot of people except for the uber-liberal environmentalists care about this.

Its all liberals, and those with even the slightest amount of dignity and decency.

3 ( +8 / -5 )

I think this was a very poor decision by Trump and just another reason I find him unfit for this office. Yes there are inequities in the Paris accord (It is not perfect and none of the negotiated treaties are) and there are rooms for improvement or modification based on how the global economy is rapidly changing. Trump claims to be a master negotiator but I believe he has now lost any chance of negotiating the agreement or making adjustments due to this asinine act.

I consider myself an environmentalist (in some ways rather an extreme environmentalist). Heck I do not even own or use a car, I prefer getting around by bike. With that in mind I am equally dismayed when people like DiCaprio or even the Pope make some of the statements they make when they dump more CO2 into the atmosphere in a day then I will in 2 decades.

In the end he made a fool of himself in Europe and doubled down with this action, especially the way he handled it.

9 ( +12 / -3 )

Go ahead! Trump is doing what he promised to voters in his campaign. He is doing a different thing from what Obama did. It is their choice.

-10 ( +4 / -14 )

This guy is EVEN WORSE than GW Bush.

I don't know about that.

He's a loud mouthed idiot with the attention span and literacy level of a two year old.

How so?

The whole world is laughing at him.

I wonder how Americans feel about having a complete laughing stock as a president.

I don't think a lot of people except for the uber-liberal environmentalists care about this.

-23 ( +3 / -26 )

Trump continues to do everything he can to make China great again.

14 ( +17 / -3 )

This is one of the worst decisions made by any American president and will have devastating consequences in the long run. The name Trump may well be remembered forever as the single misguided man who destroyed humanity and much of life on Earth. Whatever hope we still had of controlling global climate change may have just evaporated. We Americans released most of the excess CO2 in the atmosphere and have a huge responsibility to deal with it.  

Republicans: you can stop this disaster in progress. There will be electoral consequences one way or another. But the threat to humanity is far bigger than the survival of one political party in one nation.

6 ( +9 / -3 )

This guy is EVEN WORSE than GW Bush.

He's a loud mouthed idiot with the attention span and literacy level of a two year old.

The whole world is laughing at him.

I wonder how Americans feel about having a complete laughing stock as a president.

10 ( +15 / -5 )

Trump is a walking, environmental, political, economical, human relations disaster.

11 ( +15 / -4 )

Inquiring minds want to know just how much longer are the American people going to let this dog and pony show go on for?

Unfettered, at least until January 2019. Hopefully Americans regain their preference for divided government and give the Dems sufficient leverage to resist the GOP agenda. The Dems putting FWD better candidates and a more populist vision would help tremendously in this regard. America is not already great.

Two additional years until this party, not merely its repellent leader, leaves the White House. Impeach him tomorrow and nothing changes, which is why I'm always averse to focusing on any single individual too much, no matter how loathsome.

-1 ( +3 / -4 )

He is doing it for Pittsburgh. Pittsburgh Mayor reply "ya ya but we in Pittsburgh agree with the Paris accord and will do our best to stick to it". Wow, talk about a return winner, slammed Trump statement back down his throat. Great to see a public figure stick to community opposition to Trump. Like Cal is the 8th biggest economy and it the greenest community on earth. No way Cal will go along with Washington. They have gone it alone so far concerning fossil fuels.

11 ( +14 / -3 )

Inquiring minds want to know just how much longer are the American people going to let this dog and pony show go on for?

Trump has become more than an embarrassment, he is a senile liability.

12 ( +15 / -3 )

"We don't want other leaders and other countries laughing at us any more. And they won't be," Trump added

Oh they already are, Donald. they already are.

the United States can no longer be trusted

Like they can not be trusted with confidential intelligence info (see Manchester).

8 ( +11 / -3 )

Hey, I guess Trump supporters can finally say he has achieved something he promised to do on the campaign trail.

That something is to screw over future generations and trash America's position of leadership, but hey, I guess none of that matters when you just keep telling yourself you are winning. Dear leader needs to feel like you love him, so it is mandatory you keep telling yourself that.

7 ( +10 / -3 )

That decision causes a major power shift eastwards. Good move for China. With alliances shifting away from the US and towards China it will make China much more powerful not only economically but politically and accelarate the decline of influence of the US.

8 ( +13 / -5 )

America is quickly becoming irrelevant in the world. Corporations still need to sell to Europe and Asia, so the Paris accords will continue with or without America's approval, but when the sanctions start rolling in, you'll see how fast the big ones bail and set shop in Berlin, Beijing and New Delhi.

Trump is showing us what a great President Obama was.

21 ( +26 / -5 )

This guy is stuck. Stuck in a dying industry, refusing to move ahead, not even thinking about the jobs or booming economy renewable energy can generate. He is just so dumb. There's really nothing else to say.

22 ( +25 / -3 )

Good move.

-34 ( +4 / -38 )

please don't be shame on usa, lots of people think differently than trump especially california. the explanation he gave was totally nonsense. he runs the white house like running his own business not professional at all. i wonder why he dislikes obama so much. jealousy??

9 ( +12 / -3 )

*mantra

0 ( +3 / -3 )

Supporters of the accord condemned Trump's move as an abdication of American leadership, an international disgrace and a monumental foreign policy blunder.

This is not the only way in which Trump is abdicating American leadership. For a guy that wants the US to be strong, he sure is doing his best to deplete the authority with which the US has acted on the international stage. (Yes, I agree the US has often times overstepped the bounds of reasonableness because of its perceived authority.)

Burning: You do realize that if you think America needs to be made great again that indicates you don't think America is great now. This leads to the inference that you are not a patriot. In the immortal words of conservatives who now subscribe to the MAGMA montra: Americ, love it or leave it.

5 ( +11 / -6 )

It's going to hot where he's going... very hot.

Shame on the USA.

21 ( +24 / -3 )

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