The Paris Deal is not a failure because of the American withdrawal for several reasons.
Number 1: The countries have joined together to make this deal work
Most people have viewed the US’s exit as irresponsible, given that climate change is a real and visible threat. Even the American public does not support this decision as much as one would think. The European Union, China and India, which are considered the second-largest forces behind the US, joined together to commit their futures to the Paris Agreement.
These countries are in a position to influence other countries to move towards a more sustainable future. India and China, for example, are the two fastest-growing solar energy markets today. India and China have the highest commercial and roof solar installations, and they are both inspiring South East Asia to follow their lead. India has been a leader in the campaign to standardize solar costs around the world to make it more affordable for small nations.
Even European countries such as Germany, France and UK actively engage in reducing carbon footprints by pushing renewables. This negates the need for American leadership on this specific endeavor.
Number 2: Companies are taking green initiatives seriously
The state may push an agenda, but it’s up to the business world to finance, promote and own that agenda. The shortsightedness in US policy has not affected the corporates. Almost every major company is working to switch to green energy. Even US oil companies are investing in renewables. Moreover, corporate bodies around the world are more inclined than ever to clean energy. Once again, developing countries are participating more enthusiastically than those expected to be leading.
Number 3: the US will arrive at the green party a bit later
There is general agreement that the US will return to the Paris Agreement, or a future version of it. It is absurd for the US to ignore an initiative that could have a profound impact on the world’s history. If recent White House statements are to believed, Washington may be considering a return – albeit with some concessions for its fossil allies.
The United States are currently one of the world’s largest producers of clean power. The spirit of it is already in place and the Paris Exit can be seen as a minor administrative hiccup on the road to a sustainable future.