US Cities and States Head to COP30 as Federal Government Skips Summit

While the Trump administration plans to skip the upcoming COP30 climate summit in Brazil, over 100 American state and local leaders are stepping up to represent U.S. climate action on the global stage. The federal government confirmed it will not send any high-level representatives to this month’s crucial United Nations climate negotiations.

This absence marks a significant shift in America’s official presence at international climate talks, leaving cities, states, and regional coalitions to showcase the country’s environmental efforts. These subnational leaders are expected to highlight their own climate initiatives, from renewable energy projects to emissions reduction programs that continue regardless of federal policy.

The contrast underscores a growing divide between federal and local approaches to climate action in the United States. While Washington steps back from international climate diplomacy, mayors, governors, and state officials are demonstrating that American climate leadership persists at the grassroots level.

COP30, taking place in Brazil, represents a critical moment for global climate negotiations as countries assess progress on emissions targets and discuss future commitments. The participation of dozens of U.S. state and local leaders signals that American climate action continues through alternative channels, even as the federal government distances itself from multilateral climate efforts. This bottom-up approach may prove essential for maintaining U.S. credibility in international climate discussions and ensuring continued cooperation between American communities and global partners working toward emissions reduction goals.