With the worsening climatic conditions all over Europe and US, President Biden is considering declaring a national climate emergency. Here’s everything you need to know about it.
What is the climate emergency?
Biden is considering declaring a national climate emergency. If implemented, it could allow the Democrat leader to suspend the oil and petroleum sector (shale) including offshore drilling as well as shut down crude oil exports. Additionally, this will also stop offshore drilling.
According to the sources, the President may be looking to announce additional measures that can be used to combat the issue. However, its extent, nature, and timeline remain undecided.
However, implementing a nationwide climate emergency will require a tough resolve from the President facing pushback from his own senators, who are essentially lobbying for the non-renewable sector. As per reports, West Virginia Senator Joe Manchin III was vital in crushing Biden’s Build Back Better plan. The plan was aiming to eliminate greenhouse gas emissions from the US electricity grid and raise funds for eco-friendly approaches.
More on the problems with enacting
Additionally, the emergency will also affect the lives of thousands working in the oil and petroleum (shale) industry. Hence, Congress is unwilling to fight this issue.
“The potential to enact the legislation is dead. This then frees up the president to use the full powers of the executive branch. And those full powers certainly include a climate emergency,” stated Senator Jeff Merkley, an Oregon Democrat. “I made my case that it’s time for urgent action. My hope is his actions will be as bold as the problem requires,” he added.
On Friday, Biden added that he will not be backing down on climate change. He also pledged to “take strong executive action to meet this moment.” While discussions are rising on the matter, it needs time and effort to come to action.