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How to Raise Trillions to Fight Climate Change, With or Without the U.S.

Summary

At COP29 in Baku, Azerbaijan, nations face challenges in meeting the $1 trillion annual climate finance needed for low-income countries to address climate change. Donald Trump’s election complicates funding, as the U.S. is unlikely to contribute under his administration. Proposed solutions include taxing carbon emissions, shipping, and oil profits; debt relief programs; scaling up development bank funding; and leveraging private investment. Wealthier nations’ failure to meet past climate finance goals has fueled frustration among developing countries. Critics argue innovative financing mechanisms must deliver significant aid without increasing the debt burdens of vulnerable nations. While solutions exist, political and economic obstacles remain steep.

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Environmental
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Climate
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