Clinton and Sanders competing on climate policy

The Democratic presidential candidates in the United States are competing over who has the better credentials in the environmental arena.

Bernie Sanders has been vocal about his support for strong climate policies and Hillary Clinton’s campaign chief laid out her climate action plan on Wednesday.

The Iowa caucus, the first electoral test for the candidates, takes place on 1 February.

A spokesperson for Bernie Sanders had asked Clinton “what was taking them so long”, after promising a “comprehensive” climate plan six months ago, according to media reports.

Michael Briggs said “Senator Sanders believes stopping the worst effects of climate change is a critical challenge for the next president.”

Chairman of the Hillary Clinton presidential campaign, John Podesta, said that Clinton wants to make the US a renewable energy superpower and would impose effective levies on oil and gas companies.

Clinton has also consistently opposed the Keystone XL oil pipeline and Atlantic oil drilling which demonstrates her commitment to environmental protection, said Podesta.

Sanders would ban fossil fuel lobbyists from the White House, reduce emissions 80 per cent by 2050, and deliver financial support to communities experiencing the impacts of climate change, according to his website.