Trump Administration Blocks Key U.N. Environmental Recommendations

The Trump administration joined Russia, Saudi Arabia, and Iran in opposing language on fossil fuels, plastics, and biodiversity in the U.N.’s Global Environment Outlook 7 report, preventing the release of a “summary for policymakers” for the first time since 1997. The 1,210-page report, compiled over three years by 300 experts, translates scientific evidence on climate change, pollution, land degradation, biodiversity loss, and plastics into guidance for governments.

During October negotiations, a U.S. official objected to language advocating clean energy, biodiversity protection, and reduced plastic use. Following these objections, the summary was dropped entirely rather than revised. Analysts say the move reflects the Trump administration’s broader pattern of undermining global climate policy, including withdrawing from the Paris Agreement and blocking global pollution measures.

The report emphasized that transitioning to clean energy could yield global economic benefits of up to $20 trillion per year by 2070, but political objections overrode scientific recommendations.

19-12-2025