Trump’s Tariffs vs. Climate Goals: 10 Ways Green Action Could Suffer

Outlook Business Desk

Clean Tech Price Surge

Trump’s proposed 60% tariffs on Chinese imports could spike costs for solar panels, EVs and batteries, slowing adoption. Trump’s proposed tariffs on Chinese imports could spike costs for clean tech.

EV Adoption Roadblock

Cheap Chinese EVs (like BYD) help global decarbonisation—tariffs could keep prices high, reducing affordability. Obstruction to adoption of Electric vehicles.

Wind Energy Setback

Tariffs on steel (used in turbines) and Chinese components could raise wind farm costs by 15-20%. Rise in wind farm costs expected.

Carbon Border Taxes at Risk

EU’s CBAM (tax on high-carbon imports) may clash with US tariffs, weakening global climate policies. Global climate policies at risk. Photo by Pixabay

Green Inflation Fears

Rising costs for clean tech could push governments to prioritise cheap fossil fuels over renewables. Cheap fossil fuels over renewables may be considered as a consequence.

China’s Retaliation Threat

Beijing may curb exports of rare earth minerals (vital for wind turbines, EVs), disrupting supply chains. India and reciprocal tariff: Govt encourages the exporters to come out of their comfort zone

Stalled Climate Diplomacy

Trade wars could derail US -China cooperation, like the 2021 Glasgow Pact on emissions. China US