Politics

White House Considering Nearly Doubling Obama’s Climate Vow

  • Biden may call for cutting U.S. emissions by 50% from 2005
  • Goal expected later this month ahead of U.S. climate summit
Photographer: Luke Sharrett/Bloomberg
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The White House is considering a pledge to cut U.S. greenhouse-gas emissions by 50% or more by the end of the decade, according to people familiar with the deliberations, a target that would nearly double the country’s previous commitment and require dramatic changes in the power, transportation and other sectors.

The emissions-reduction goal, which is still being developed and subject to change, is part of a White House push to encourage worldwide action to keep average global temperature from rising more than 1.5 degrees Celsius (2.7 degrees Fahrenheit) from pre-industrial levels, according to the people. The administration of President Joe Biden is expected to unveil the target before a climate summit later this month.