Environment Correspondent, Archynetys
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The UN climate summit in the United Arab Emirates in 2023 marked a historic milestone with its call for a transition away from fossil fuels. However, barely a year later, there are growing concerns that global momentum on clean energy is faltering.
Studies indicate that the growth of clean energy initiatives is slowing down, while the burning of fossil fuels continues to increase. This shift is exacerbated by US President Donald Trump’s policies, which promote fossil fuels over clean energy.
Trump’s slogan, “drill, baby, drill,” aims to boost fossil fuel extraction and signals a disinterest in adhering to the principles of the Paris climate agreement. The administration has notified the UN of its intention to withdraw from this international pact.
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‘If US is not doing it, why should we?’
Indonesia, a top carbon-emitting country, has hinted that it may follow the US lead in withdrawing from the Paris Agreement. Special envoy for climate change and energy, Hashim Djojohadikusumo, questioned why Indonesia should comply when the US produces 13 tons of carbon per person compared to Indonesia’s three tons.
At the ESG Sustainable Forum 2025 in Jakarta, Djojohadikusumo asked, “If the United States does not want to comply with the international agreement, why should a country like Indonesia comply with it?”
This sentiment reflects broader regional concern. Nithi Nesadurai of Climate Action Network Southeast Asia believes that the signals from the US could serve as justification for other countries to increase their fossil fuel production.
South Africa, a major carbon emitter, faces its own challenges. A $8.5bn transition project from the coal sector has stalled, and there are fears it could be further delayed due to renewed focus on fossil fuels.
