The United States is the world’s largest economy and the second largest emitter of carbon dioxide after China. REAL takes a look at the commitments the campaign of president-elect Biden has made.

Refers to climate change as an emergency and has promised to rejoin the Paris Agreement.

Plans to convene a global climate summit to persuade leaders to set more ambitious targets and introduce enforceable targets for reducing greenhouse gas emissions.

Indicated that it would permanently protect the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge from energy development.

Promises to stop the Keystone XL (oil) pipeline although hasn’t taken a position on the Dakota Access (oil) pipeline.

Favours an end to fossil fuel subsidies.

Wouldn’t ban fracking, but would ban new offshore drilling and new permits on public lands.

Pledges to invest USD 2 trillion to confront the “grave threat” of climate change.

Has set out a climate plan which outlines strategies to achieve 100% clean electricity by 2035 and net-zero emissions by 2050.

Supports using the renewable energy market as a major job creator.

Wants to introduce strict fuel-efficiency standards in an attempt to make purchases of all new cars and light trucks electric.

Supports developing small-scale nuclear reactors

Mentions plastic as a threat to safe water in climate plan. Supports phasing out single-use plastics.

Supports goal of conserving 30% of America’s land and water by 2030 as a way to slow extinctions.

Has promised to restore protections to several areas opened up by the Trump Administration.