A group representing $6.2 trillion of the US economy says they're 'still in' the Paris climate agreement
In total, the group includes 125 cities, 9 states, 902 businesses and investors, and 183 colleges and universities. Over 20 of the businesses who signed on are Fortune 500 companies.
The group penned an open letter on Monday, stating, "The Trump administration's announcement undermines a key pillar in the fight against climate change and damages the world's ability to avoid the most dangerous and costly effects of climate change. Importantly, it is also out of step with what is happening in the United States."
The group declared ot will pursue climate goals, "in the absence of leadership by Washington," adding "It is local and state governments, along with businesses, that are primarily responsible for the dramatic decrease in greenhouse gas emissions in recent years. Actions by each group will multiply and accelerate in the years ahead, no matter what policies Washington may adopt."
Governor Terry McAuliffe of Virginia commented on his state's participation in a press release, saying: "President Trump's announcement to withdraw the United States from the Paris Climate Agreement does not speak for the states and cities that are committed to fighting climate change and paving the way for a new energy economy. If the federal government insists on abdicating leadership on this issue, it will be up to the American people to step forward -- and in Virginia we are doing just that."
Lyft CEO John Zimmer commented in a press release: "Collective action is a powerful force that will ensure the U.S. remains on track to meet and hopefully exceed the goals of the Paris Agreement. Lyft is proud to be part of this coalition and will be taking additional actions in the months and years ahead to ensure we do our part in addressing one of the greatest challenges of our time."
Companies, investors, mayors and governors, and colleges and universities can sign up to join the movement on the website. A full list of signatories is available on the website as well.
Since President Trump's announcement on June 1st that he plans to remove the US from the Paris agreement, 211 mayors have adopted the Paris Agreement goals for their cities, 13 Governors have joined to create the bipartisan U.S. Climate Alliance, and 17 governors have released statements standing by Paris, according to a press release from We Are Still In.
Trump said on June 1st that he would try to renegotiate a new Paris agreement deal for the US, something that European leaders - like France, Germany, and Italy - have been adamant will not happen. "We will see if we can make a deal that's fair," Trump said in his speech. "If we can, that's great. And if we can't, that's fine."