Shapes climate policy
U.S. participation influences domestic regulations on energy, vehicles and industry, affecting consumer costs and business planning.
In plain English
When nations pledge to cool the planet.
A global deal where countries each promise their own plan to cut the pollution that warms the planet, with the shared goal of keeping temperatures from rising too much.
Simple example
The United States joined the agreement in 2016 under President Obama, withdrew in 2020 under President Trump, rejoined in 2021 under President Biden, and initiated withdrawal again in January 2025 under President Trump.
Why it matters
What the term actually changes.
Global leverage
Whether the United States is in or out of the agreement affects how other major emitters, such as China and India, approach their own commitments.
How it works
The mechanics, in practice.
National pledges
Each country submits a Nationally Determined Contribution outlining how much it will cut emissions and by when, updated every five years.
Non-binding targets
The agreement requires countries to report progress but does not impose legal penalties for missing emissions targets.
Related guide
What is the Paris Agreement, and what has the U.S. committed to?
A look at the international climate accord, how U.S. participation has shifted across administrations, and the debate over strengthening its targets.
Read the guide → Related issue brief
Should the U.S. strengthen its Paris Agreement commitments?
Americans are divided over whether Washington should deepen its pledges under the 2015 climate accord or step back from them.
Read the brief →You’ve learned the term. Now vote.
Should the United States strengthen its Paris Agreement commitments?
Live results — 122 voters
Anonymous · one vote per person