President Joe Biden’s legacy will be inextricably linked to his stance on climate change, marked by a decisive return to the Paris Agreement and unprecedented investments in clean energy. However, with the impending transition to a new administration less committed to climate action, the urgency to solidify his environmental achievements is paramount. A crucial step in cementing this legacy involves halting the expansion of liquefied natural gas (LNG) exports, a move that would resonate globally as a powerful affirmation of America’s commitment to a sustainable future.
The authors, a US Congressman and a Member of the European Parliament, argue that ceasing LNG export expansion is not just environmentally imperative but also strategically sound. They contend that the narrative portraying American LNG as essential for European energy security is misleading. Existing US LNG infrastructure is deemed sufficient to address Europe’s energy needs, and demand in key export markets like Europe, Japan, and South Korea is already declining as these nations transition to cleaner energy alternatives. Expanding LNG exports, therefore, is economically imprudent and reinforces dependence on fossil fuels, delaying the inevitable shift to renewables.
The environmental consequences of LNG production and transportation are substantial. From methane leaks during extraction and transport to air and water pollution impacting communities along the supply chain, the lifecycle of LNG contributes significantly to global warming and poses health risks, particularly to vulnerable populations. These environmental and social justice concerns underscore the need for a decisive shift away from fossil fuel dependence. The authors emphasize that clinging to LNG expansion represents a grave threat to global climate goals and undermines the transition to a sustainable energy future.
The alternative, pivoting towards renewable energy sources like wind, solar, and battery storage, offers a more viable and sustainable path. Renewables are rapidly becoming the most cost-effective energy option globally, and advancements in storage technology address concerns about reliability. Investing in these technologies not only reduces our reliance on environmentally damaging fossil fuels but also fosters economic growth and creates new jobs. The authors argue that a commitment to renewables represents the only responsible and forward-thinking approach to meeting future energy demands.
With the incoming administration expected to prioritize fossil fuel interests, President Biden’s final weeks in office present a critical opportunity to safeguard climate progress. By halting LNG expansion, he can send a powerful message to the world, demonstrating a commitment to climate leadership and paving the way for a more sustainable future. This decisive action would not only solidify his environmental legacy but also inspire other nations to accelerate their transition to clean energy.
The authors appeal to President Biden’s demonstrated history of challenging powerful fossil fuel interests and his commitment to climate action. They believe he possesses the political will to make this critical decision, urging him to seize this final opportunity to solidify his climate legacy. Halting LNG export expansion is presented as a crucial step towards a more just and sustainable future, a legacy that would endure long after his presidency. It’s a call to prioritize long-term global well-being over short-term economic gains tied to the fossil fuel industry.
