US companies stand firm on climate at COP30 despite federal politics

Despite the U.S. federal government’s skepticism on climate policy, American companies actively participated in the COP30 climate summit in Belem, Brazil, highlighting their commitment to sustainability and low-carbon investments.

Over 60 representatives from Fortune 100 companies attended the summit, more than last year, including tech giants Microsoft and Google, energy firms like Occidental Petroleum, carmaker General Motors, and lender Citigroup. Executives stressed that engagement in climate action protects supply chains, ensures business continuity, and supports sustainable agriculture.

Private sector initiatives are already driving emissions reductions: a recent University of Maryland analysis shows existing corporate and non-federal policies could cut U.S. emissions by 35% by 2035. Despite federal rhetoric, U.S. companies continue to invest in clean energy and disclose climate strategies, signaling to global markets that they understand the competitive, technological, and economic stakes of the energy transition.

Experts note that even if national policy is unsettled, the presence of U.S. businesses at COP30 demonstrates the country’s decisive role in shaping global climate, energy, and industrial policy.