AIA Calls for U.S. to Reverse Withdrawal from Paris Climate Agreement

The American Institute of Architects (AIA) recently issued a statement following the decision by President Trump to officially withdraw from the Paris climate accord.

AIA 2019 President William Bates, FAIA, said:

The AIA deplores the administration’s shortsighted decision. The economic impact to the United States as a participant in the Paris Agreement is a fraction of the toll we will pay if we do not make climate action a top priority as a nation. The stakes couldn’t be higher—a reversal of this decision is critical.

AIA EVP/Chief Executive Officer Robert Ivy, FAIA, added:

Yesterday’s abdication of America’s leadership on climate action undermines our nation’s credibility on the global stage. As a large contributor to greenhouse gas emissions and as one of the most sophisticated countries in the world, we are capable of reducing these harmful effects on the environment. In order to move the needle on this global crisis, it will take the efforts of every industry, every company, and every citizen of the United States as well as the leadership of the United States government. The AIA will continue to prioritize climate action in an effort to support architects—and the entire design and construction field—in this critical role.

In September, the AIA expanded its efforts to drive climate action and issued a declaration, Where We Stand: Climate Action, outlining its initial path forward.

Craig DiLouie

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