When Donald Trump was sworn in as the 47th president of the United States on January 20, a chill ran through global climate activists. 
In his inaugural address, Trump doubled down on his plans to ditch the Green New Deal and exit the Paris Agreement. 
With extreme weather events on the rise and geopolitical tensions heating up, the arrival of the Trump 2.0 era feels like a plot twist nobody saw coming. 
Trump's First Term: The Plot Thickens
Remember Trump's first term (2017–2021)? It was like watching a blockbuster where the hero suddenly switches sides. 
Instead of continuing the fight against climate change, the US did a U-turn, backing out of the Paris Agreement and embracing fossil fuels. 
This \"climate retreat\" threw a wrench into global efforts for green development and left many nations feeling betrayed. 
At home, Trump's policies scrapped key climate initiatives like the Clean Power Plan, replacing them with the fossil fuel-friendly \"America First\" energy plan. 
Funding for climate research took a nosedive, and progress on clean energy hit a serious speed bump. 
The fallout was real: states pushing for renewable energy dropped from 29 in 2013 to just 25 by 2019. Greenhouse gas emissions in the US began to climb again, with projections showing only a 15-18% reduction from 2005 levels by 2025—that's way off the 26-28% goal set earlier. 
As the world's biggest carbon emitter historically, the US slowdown put more pressure on other countries to pick up the slack. 
Breaking the Deadlock: Looking Ahead
So, what does Trump's second term mean for the planet? 
It's a major question mark. 
With policies that favor fossil fuels over renewables, the global push for a green recovery faces some serious hurdles. 
But all hope isn't lost! 
Countries around the world are stepping up their game. The EU, China, and even some US states are doubling down on green initiatives, investing in renewable energy, and setting ambitious emissions targets. 
For young people and climate warriors everywhere, this is a call to action. 
If the leaders won't lead, then maybe it's time we did! 
From climate strikes to sustainable living, every action counts. Let's keep the green dream alive, no matter who's in office! 
Reference(s):
Breaking the deadlock: Global green recovery in Trump 2.0 era
cgtn.com
