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What is the current state of International Environmental Law in the United States?

Kelton Tesdale

The current state of International Environmental Law in the United States is complex and ever-changing. The United States has been a leader in environmental law and policy for decades, enacting important legislation such as the Clean Air Act and the Clean Water Act, and signing onto international agreements such as the Paris Climate Agreement. However, recent changes in the political landscape have threatened the country's commitment to international environmental cooperation.

In June 2017, President Trump announced his intention to withdraw from the Paris Climate Agreement, a decision that caused outcry both domestically and internationally. However, the withdrawal process is a lengthy one, and the US is not scheduled to officially leave the agreement until November 2020. In the meantime, the federal government has continued to roll back regulations related to climate change and other environmental issues. For example, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has proposed to replace the Obama-era Clean Power Plan with a plan that would give individual states greater authority to regulate emissions from coal-fired power plants. These changes are likely to have significant impacts on the country's ability to meet its international environmental obligations.

At the same time, other actors within the United States are pushing for more action on environmental issues. Several states and cities have pledged to continue to work toward the goals of the Paris Agreement, and several lawsuits have been filed challenging the federal government's decisions to roll back environmental regulations. Additionally, private companies and other non-state actors are taking on a greater role in environmental governance, particularly in the area of renewable energy. For example, a coalition of states, cities, and businesses has launched the "We Are Still In" campaign, pledging to continue to uphold the goals of the Paris Agreement.

Overall, the current state of International Environmental Law in the United States is characterized by both challenges and opportunities. While the federal government's commitment to international environmental cooperation has been put into question, other actors are stepping up to fill the gap. Looking ahead, it is likely that the US will continue to face pressure both domestically and internationally to take action on environmental issues, and that the role of non-state actors will continue to grow in importance. Ultimately, the future of environmental governance in the United States will depend on a combination of political will, public engagement, and private sector innovation.