US supports action to reduce greenhouse gases at Arctic summit

U.S. Secretary of State Rex Tillerson signed an agreement calling for global action to curb greenhouse gas emissions during a meeting of Arctic nations in Alaska on Thursday 11 May. 

Rex Tillerson signed the Fairbanks Declaration alongside seven other foreign ministers – including Canada, Russia and Norway – at the meeting of the Arctic Council, which meets every two years to discuss climate change and other challenges facing the region.

Climate change is particularly prevalent in the Arctic, with temperatures rising at a faster pace than any other part of the world, forcing its inhabitants living near coasts and rivers to move to higher ground as permafrost and glaciers melt and seas rise.

While the statement merely referenced the entry into force of the Paris Agreement, it shows the U.S. is in support of curbing greenhouse gas pollution.

The U.S. government is yet to reaffirm its commitment to the Paris Agreement.

Finland's Foreign Minister Timo Soini, whose country will chair the council for the next two years, commended U.S. leadership in the Arctic Council, but went on to emphasise the Paris Agreement as an important tool in fighting climate change.

The council also signed an agreement on sharing research and data regarding the region, an effort led by the U.S. and Russia.

David Waskow, International Climate Director at the World Resources Institute, welcomed the outcome of the summit, saying: “If anyone had doubts about the urgent threat of climate change, this communique endorsed by the entire Arctic Council – including the United States – must set them to rest.

“I find it very encouraging that the council acknowledged that global action is necessary to address this global challenge. That is exactly why the Paris Agreement, which the communique highlights, is so important.”

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