Nations are continuing to cooperate on climate action and make progress on long-standing divisive issues, even as the United States has stepped back from global leadership, according to Laurence Tubiana, CEO of the European Climate Foundation.
While the recent U.S. midterms did not heavily feature climate policy, and a Democratic victory does not guarantee a swift return to U.S. climate leadership, the ongoing international efforts suggest a positive trajectory for global climate action. Opponents of climate action have attempted to portray retreat as inevitable, but this narrative overlooks the continued collaboration among many countries on critical climate issues.
Significant diplomatic efforts are underway. In April, 57 countries convened in Santa Marta, Colombia, to address obstacles to transitioning away from fossil fuels, including both developed and developing nations, as well as fossil fuel producers and importers. Additionally, the European Union, China, and Brazil have established a new coalition focused on carbon markets, a crucial mechanism for reducing industrial emissions without disadvantaging domestic producers. This collaboration on a complex diplomatic challenge marks a substantial political step.
The persistence of international climate cooperation stems from a widespread recognition among governments that climate change and energy insecurity pose direct threats to national interests. In an interdependent world, addressing these threats necessitates collaboration, regardless of political complexities.
The recent fossil fuel shock, exacerbated by geopolitical events and worsening climate impacts, has intensified the focus on these shared interests. The traditional view of energy security, emphasizing reliable and diverse supplies, is being re-evaluated. The realization is dawning that even diversified supply chains are vulnerable to global market volatility, as demonstrated by rising fuel prices in the United States. Concurrently, the cost and efficiency of technologies like batteries, solar panels, and electric vehicles are rapidly improving. Their adoption has accelerated, particularly as consumers seek alternatives to volatile fossil fuel prices. Outside of China and the United States, electric car sales saw an estimated 45% increase in the first eight months of the year compared to the same period in 2025.
Furthermore, the escalating scale of climate disasters, evidenced by extreme heat and widespread wildfires, has made their economic and human costs impossible for governments to ignore. The U.N. Environment Programme has confirmed that the world is on track to exceed 1.5°C of warming, with each additional fraction of a degree increasing losses and the risk of irreversible tipping points.
While the U.S. departure from climate action and multilateralism has undeniably complicated global efforts, and attempts have been made to hinder international progress, the midterm elections offer no certainty of a policy shift. However, they highlight the ineffectiveness of promises that fossil fuels will ensure affordable energy. Politicians globally should note that climate denial does not address voters' concerns about their utility bills. Other nations can find greater confidence in pursuing their climate ambitions, rather than being constrained by the threat of U.S. retaliation. By acting collectively, middle powers can strengthen their resilience against external pressure.
With increasing reasons to act and diminishing reasons to delay, the upcoming U.N. climate conference, COP31, is expected to feature pledges from a diverse group of nations to transition to clean electricity. Major fossil fuel importers and clean technology suppliers are poised to play a significant role. American states, cities, and businesses are also anticipated to participate actively, signaling a willingness to collaborate internationally, irrespective of federal policy. This collective engagement could send a powerful signal of global intent.