The article, authored by Barack Obama, highlights the irreversible momentum of clean energy and the decoupling of emissions from economic growth. Despite ongoing debates about U.S. climate policy, the author argues that the trend towards a clean-energy economy is robust and will continue. Key points include: 1. **Economic Growth and Emission Reductions**: The United States has experienced rapid GHG emissions reductions (9.5% from 2008 to 2015) while the economy grew by over 10%. This "decoupling" of emissions and growth challenges the notion that combating climate change requires sacrificing economic growth. 2. **Private-Sector Efforts**: Businesses are recognizing the economic benefits of reducing emissions, such as cost savings and increased efficiency. Examples include Alcoa and General Motors setting ambitious GHG reduction targets. These efforts are contributing to a broader shift in the energy sector, with total energy consumption decreasing while the economy grows. 3. **Market Forces in the Power Sector**: The shift from coal to natural gas and the increasing adoption of renewable energy sources like wind and solar are driven by market dynamics. Natural gas now accounts for 33% of U.S. electricity generation, and renewable energy costs have dropped significantly. Major companies like Google and Walmart are committing to 100% renewable energy. 4. **Global Momentum**: Despite policy uncertainties, countries and businesses worldwide are moving forward with clean energy initiatives. The Paris Agreement provides a framework for global cooperation, and many major companies and investors support it. 5. **Conclusion**: The author emphasizes that the economic and scientific evidence strongly support the transition to a low-carbon economy. continued participation in the Paris process is crucial for the U.S. and the international community, offering significant benefits for both economic growth and environmental sustainability.The article, authored by Barack Obama, highlights the irreversible momentum of clean energy and the decoupling of emissions from economic growth. Despite ongoing debates about U.S. climate policy, the author argues that the trend towards a clean-energy economy is robust and will continue. Key points include: 1. **Economic Growth and Emission Reductions**: The United States has experienced rapid GHG emissions reductions (9.5% from 2008 to 2015) while the economy grew by over 10%. This "decoupling" of emissions and growth challenges the notion that combating climate change requires sacrificing economic growth. 2. **Private-Sector Efforts**: Businesses are recognizing the economic benefits of reducing emissions, such as cost savings and increased efficiency. Examples include Alcoa and General Motors setting ambitious GHG reduction targets. These efforts are contributing to a broader shift in the energy sector, with total energy consumption decreasing while the economy grows. 3. **Market Forces in the Power Sector**: The shift from coal to natural gas and the increasing adoption of renewable energy sources like wind and solar are driven by market dynamics. Natural gas now accounts for 33% of U.S. electricity generation, and renewable energy costs have dropped significantly. Major companies like Google and Walmart are committing to 100% renewable energy. 4. **Global Momentum**: Despite policy uncertainties, countries and businesses worldwide are moving forward with clean energy initiatives. The Paris Agreement provides a framework for global cooperation, and many major companies and investors support it. 5. **Conclusion**: The author emphasizes that the economic and scientific evidence strongly support the transition to a low-carbon economy. continued participation in the Paris process is crucial for the U.S. and the international community, offering significant benefits for both economic growth and environmental sustainability.