Why Trump's fossil fuel blitz heralds a dark era in carbon reduction

US President Donald Trump speaks to journalists about TikTok as he signs executive orders in the Oval Office of the White House in Washington, DC, on January 20, 2025.[AFP]

Donald Trump has wasted no time in declaring a national “energy emergency,” paving the way for new fossil fuel drilling projects.

He also outlined his plan to overturn key climate policies enacted under the previous administration.

His agenda includes rolling back emissions standards and halting offshore wind leasing. He revoked a freeze on liquefied natural gas (LNG) export approvals and reopened vast tracts of federal land for drilling.