Germany and California to strengthen climate cooperation

Europe’s largest economy and the largest state economy in the U.S. have issued a joint statement of intent to boost climate cooperation and to support the "Under 2 Coalition".

The move comes just days after California signed an agreement to work with China on combating climate change and reducing emissions.

California Governor Jerry Brown met with Germany's Environment Minister Barbara Hendricks last weekend in San Francisco, after which the pair issued a joint statement emphasising the importance of the two economic powers collaborating with other global governments and regions to provide leadership on international climate action.

The statement highlighted that combating climate change "is not only a necessity but also an opportunity for growth".

The two governments have also agreed to support the work of the "Under 2 Coalition" which includes 175 global cities, regional governments and states, and seeks to keep worldwide average temperature increases below 2°C.

Minister Hendricks said: "We cannot achieve our climate goals without the engagement of local and regional communities.”

In a statement released by the German Ministry, Governor Brown said: "California and Germany unite the world leaders in the fight against climate change, the existential threat of our time.”

The move is part of a series of efforts from both regional and national governments, in addition to businesses, to strengthen international support for the Paris Agreement and decarbonisation of the global economy.

Minister Hendricks added in the statement: "Together with California, Germany will provide strong leadership for the Under2 Coalition in the COP23 in Bonn this November."

Never miss an update by signing up to our free newsletter here.

 

Image source: John Larimore