AP: As leaders set fresh climate goals, Biden pledges U.S. support
“U.S. President-elect Joe Biden pledged Saturday to rejoin the Paris climate accord on the first day of his presidency, as world leaders staged a virtual gathering to celebrate the fifth anniversary of the international pact aimed at curbing global warming. Heads of state and government from over 70 countries took part in the event — hosted by Britain, France, Italy, Chile, and the United Nations — to announce greater efforts in cutting the greenhouse gas emissions that fuel global warming…” (Jordans/Schaeffer, 12/12).

Reuters: U.N. chief urges leaders of every country to declare ‘climate emergency’
“U.N. Secretary-General António Guterres called on every country to declare a ‘climate emergency’ on Saturday, as world leaders marking the fifth anniversary of the Paris climate accord made mostly incremental pledges relative to the scale of the crisis. … Nevertheless, the dozens of leaders who spoke mostly offered tweaks to existing commitments or promises of bolder moves before crucial talks in Glasgow in late 2021, rather than breakthrough new policies to hasten the end of fossil fuels…” (Green/Abnett, 12/12).

Additional coverage of the virtual meeting is available from The Hill and POLITICO.