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Day: 21 January 2025

President Trump moves to withdraw US from Paris Agreement on first day back in office

by: Cassandra Tanti
21/01/2025

On his first day back in the White House, US President Donald Trump took swift action to withdraw the United States from the Paris Climate Agreement. This decision places the US alongside Iran, Libya, and Yemen as the only nations outside the global accord aimed at combating climate change.

The New York Times notes that while Trump’s first withdrawal during his previous term took three years due to procedural requirements, the process will be quicker this time. Under current rules, the US can officially leave the agreement within one year of submitting a withdrawal notice to the United Nations.

In an executive order, Trump described the Paris Agreement as one of several international accords that do not align with US interests, arguing it redirects American taxpayer dollars to countries that “do not require or merit financial assistance”. Despite his stance, recent polling cited by the Associated Press suggests that about half of Americans oppose the decision, including a significant portion of Republican voters.

The move has drawn criticism from climate advocates and analysts worldwide. Reuters highlights that the US is the second-largest emitter of greenhouse gases, behind China, and its withdrawal could significantly undermine global efforts to curb emissions. E&E News warns that this accelerated rejection of the agreement, coupled with Trump’s strengthened alliances with far-right figures domestically and internationally, could have deeper ramifications for global climate initiatives than his first withdrawal attempt.

The Financial Times points out that the US is the only country to have exited the Paris Agreement. Former Biden officials and climate activists argue that this decision could hinder the US in the global race for clean energy innovation, giving competitors like China a competitive edge.

Nevertheless, Bloomberg notes that Trump’s action may not completely reverse the country’s decarbonisation trends. Market forces, technological advancements, and economic factors have driven a gradual reduction in US emissions over the past two decades, many of which are likely to persist despite federal policy shifts.

Reactions have poured in, including from the UN climate change executive secretary, who expressed disappointment at the announcement. The move has been widely covered by outlets such as Politico, Agence France-Presse, and Bloomberg, reflecting its global implications.

Monaco Life is produced by real multi-media journalists writing original content. See more in our free newsletter, follow our Podcasts on Spotify, and check us out on Threads,  Facebook,  Instagram,  LinkedIn and Tik Tok.

Photo credit: Markus Spiske, Unsplash

 

Dr. Nathalie Hilmi plays key role in new report on Mediterranean coastal risks

by: Cassandra Tanti
21/01/2025

Dr. Nathalie Hilmi, who leads the Environmental Economics section at the Centre Scientifique de Monaco, has contributed as lead author and coordinator of Chapter 3, ‘Impacts and Risks’, in the latest report by MedECC (Mediterranean Experts on Climate and Environmental Change). The report takes a close look at how Mediterranean coastal areas are being hit hard by climate change and economic challenges, offering solutions to protect these fragile regions.

The Mediterranean is the world’s top tourist destination, drawing a third of all international visitors. More than half of the EU’s coastal tourist infrastructure is located along these shores. But by the end of this century, sea levels could rise by a metre, damaging key infrastructure like ports and displacing up to 20 million people. Coastal tourism is particularly at risk from heatwaves, jellyfish blooms, and shrinking beaches, which could drastically change the region’s appeal.

Coastal agriculture is also feeling the pressure, especially in areas like the Nile, Ebro, and Po river deltas, where farmland is being lost to salinisation. Rising sea levels and saltwater intrusion are disrupting freshwater aquaculture, endangering key species. Fisheries are facing a combination of challenges, including warming seas, invasive species, and overfishing, all of which are threatening food supplies. According to the report, if current trends continue, temperatures in the Mediterranean could rise by up to 2.9°C by 2050. This would mean more droughts and marine heatwaves, which have already increased by 40% in the past two decades, leading to severe impacts on marine ecosystems. Acidification of the waters, already underway, is expected to worsen, posing a major threat to marine biodiversity and critical ecosystem services.

In the report, Dr. Hilmi emphasises that Mediterranean economies must move away from resource-intensive practices and adopt more sustainable methods. It calls for integrated coastal zone management that combines local action with regional collaboration. Decarbonising the region’s economies is key, with alternative fuels like biofuels, hydrogen, and batteries offering greener options for maritime transport. The report also highlights the potential of ecotourism, supported by green taxes and eco-labels, to drive sustainable development. Other recommendations include electrifying ports to reduce pollution from cruise ships and introducing policies to cut emissions from the tourism sector.

With insights drawn from over 1,000 scientific studies, this report is a roadmap for policymakers and local communities to take action. By identifying risks and offering practical solutions, it underscores the need for urgent efforts to protect the Mediterranean’s environment while supporting sustainable socio-economic growth.

Monaco Life is produced by real multi-media journalists writing original content. See more in our free newsletter, follow our Podcasts on Spotify, and check us out on Threads,  Facebook,  Instagram,  LinkedIn and Tik Tok.

Photo credit: Nick Karvounis, Unsplash

 

France simplifies PACS certificate process for foreign residents

by: Stephanie Horsman
21/01/2025
couple marriage pacs

Navigating the administrative steps to prove an existing civil partnership, or PACS, agreement in France can seem daunting for foreign residents, but the government has now made the process much more straightforward.

The attestation of civil partnerships, or Pacte civil de solidarité (PACS) in French, serves as legal proof of an existing agreement and allows residents to justify their status for certain formalities, such as tax declarations.

Previously, the process for foreign nationals born abroad was somewhat complicated and time-consuming, requiring various documents and steps. However, the French government has simplified it, making it achievable in under five minutes.

The procedure begins by filling out basic information online via a dedicated portal. Applicants must provide details such as their first and last names, gender, address, phone number and email. Information about their partner, along with the date and place of PACS registration, must also be included. Once these fields are completed, a personalised letter can be generated for submission.

After generating and signing the letter, it can be sent either by email to attestationpacs.scec@diplomatie.gouv.fr or by post to: Service central d’état civil – Ministère de l’Europe et des affaires étrangères, Section PACS, 11 rue de la Maison Blanche, 44941 Nantes Cedex 09.

Those who prefer to draft the request manually can use a convenient feature to copy the text directly into an email or a word processing application, making it easy to customise if needed.

It’s worth noting that not everyone requires this certificate. French nationals or foreigners born in France can simply provide their birth certificate as sufficient proof of status.

For more details on the changes and the PACS process, click here.

Read related:

Monaco sees slight rise in divorces and shifting birth patterns in 2024

 

Monaco Life is produced by real multi-media journalists writing original content. See more in our free newsletter, follow our Podcasts on Spotify, and check us out on Threads,  Facebook,  Instagram,  LinkedIn and Tik Tok.

 

Photo credit: Priscilla du Preez, Unsplash

PFAS: EU pushes for ban on forever chemicals in consumer products

by: Niki Borisova
21/01/2025

The European Union is advancing plans to ban harmful forever chemicals in consumer products as part of its efforts to combat plastic and chemical pollution. Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances, also known as PFAS, are currently used in thousands of day-to-day items, from non-stick cookware to cosmetics.

The European Commission is planning to propose a ban on the use of PFAS, commonly known as forever chemicals, in consumer products due to their persistent environmental and health impacts, which range from liver damage, reduced birth weights, testicular cancer, thyroid disorders, and decreased vaccine responses in humans to widespread ecological issues.

Speaking about the incoming proposal to Reuters, EU Environment Commissioner Jessika Roswall said, “What we know we are looking for is a ban in consumer products… This is something that is important for us human beings, of course, but also for the environment, but I think also for the industry so they know how they can phase out PFAS.”

Roswall went on to admit that the proposal is not likely to be finalised before 2026 at best, while acknowledging that there would almost certainly be some exemptions.

Read more: Terrifying scale of forever chemicals across Europe revealed in new PFAS mapping project

PFAS are used in numerous household items due to their resistance to heat and corrosion, but their gradual breakdown is leading to a buildup of these dangerous forever chemicals in groundwater, surface water, and soil, allowing them to enter the food chain and pose health risks to humans and animals alike.

The French government has acknowledged the severity of PFAS-related risks and is actively implementing measures to limit their use. Recognising the widespread presence of PFAS in the environment, France is taking steps to address their impact on ecosystems and public health.

See more: France addresses concerns about PFAs, the forever chemicals that are threatening all lifeforms

Meanwhile, in the United States, the health risks associated with PFAS have already resulted in significant legal consequences. Lawsuits over contamination have led to settlements exceeding $11 billion from major companies such as 3M and Chemours, according to Reuters, and European companies could soon face similar litigation.

In comments made to Reuters, Hélène Duguy, a French lawyer with the environmental law firm ClientEarth, warned of a potential “wave” of lawsuits targeting pollution or the downplaying of PFAS’s environmental and health impacts.

“ClientEarth is closely monitoring companies’ conduct on PFAS and will not shy away from action,” she said.

Global efforts

In 2022, over 170 nations, including Monaco, agreed to create a legally binding treaty to end plastic pollution by 2024 under the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP). However, negotiations during the fifth Intergovernmental Negotiating Committee session in November 2024 failed to finalise the treaty due to disagreements on production limits and financial responsibilities. Consequently, negotiations are set to resume in 2025.]

Ongoing environmental initiatives

The issue of plastic pollution, including the impact of persistent chemicals like PFAS, has been a focal point in various environmental initiatives.

For instance, during Monaco Ocean Week 2023, the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) presented a report titled ‘The Mediterranean: Mare Plasticum’, focusing on the severity of plastic pollution in the Mediterranean Sea.

Additionally, the Prince Albert II of Monaco Foundation has been actively involved in combating plastic pollution. The foundation launched the BeMed project in 2015 to address this pressing issue.

Read related:

Monaco Ocean Week: World-first report into life cycle of plastics delivers shocking results

 

Monaco Life is produced by real multi-media journalists writing original content. See more in our free newsletter, follow our Podcasts on Spotify, and check us out on Threads,  Facebook,  Instagram,  LinkedIn and Tik Tok.

 

Photo credit: Klaus Nielsen, Pexels

Remembering Didier Guillaume, a “remarkable statesman” who dedicated his life to meaningful change

by: Niki Borisova
21/01/2025
Didier Guillaume Monaco

With the Principality set to enter a national day of mourning following the passing of Didier Guillaume, Monaco’s late Minister of State, Monaco Life looks back on the career of a man who has left behind him a profound legacy of dedication and commitment to meaningful change and progress.

Didier Guillaume, who passed away at the age of 65 on 17th January 2025 following hospitalisation a week prior, served as Monaco’s Minister of State for just four months before his untimely death. Despite that brief time, Guillaume had a notably positive effect on the Principality, driving forward a variety of schemes and policies that sought to improve the quality of life for its residents.

Guillaume assumed the mantle of Minister of State in September 2024, taking over from Pierre Dartout, and he quickly set about addressing key issues in Monaco, from urban development and public safety to the energy transition. He made a strong impact through measures such as the introduction of additional speed cameras and the increased surveillance of Monaco’s roads, stepping up to push through new powers for law enforcement after a spate of drink-driving accidents. His focus on sustainable practices in urban development and energy efficiency, meanwhile, aligned with Monaco’s vision for a greener future.

But Guillaume’s contributions to public life extended beyond Monaco and into France, where he has been remembered for his expertise, pragmatism and dedication to progress.

Born on 11th May 1959 in Bourg-de-Péage, a town in France’s Drôme department, Guillaume was shaped by his rural roots, which directly influenced his career in politics.

His public service began locally, as Mayor of Bourg-de-Péage from 1995 to 2004, and later as President of the General Council of Drôme, where he focused on rural development and sustainability. Elected as Senator in 2008, he served as Senate Group President in 2014, leading efforts in agriculture, rural development and social policy. Later, as France’s Minister of Agriculture and Food from 2018 until 2020, Guillaume championed agricultural reforms, climate change initiatives and food security.

Guillaume’s legacy both in France and the Principality was honoured in Monaco on 20th January with a mass at the Cathedral of Monaco, as well as during moments of silence observed across the community. A chapel of rest has been set up at the Chapelle de la Miséricorde, allowing residents to pay their respects ahead of his funeral on 23rd January.

In a statement released in the wake of Guillaume’s death, Prince Albert II described him as a “remarkable statesman” whose dedication and expertise left a lasting impression.

“I am deeply moved by the loss of a man of commitment and heart,” said the Prince. “The Principality of Monaco loses an exemplary servant, whose actions and loyalty will remain engraved in our memories. I offer my sincere condolences to his family, as well as my warmest thoughts to all those who mourn him today.”

Guillaume’s sudden passing has left a deep void, but his contributions to public service and the betterment of Monaco and France will be remembered for years to come.

Read related:

Monaco pays tribute to Didier Guillaume

 

Monaco Life is produced by real multi-media journalists writing original content. See more in our free newsletter, follow our Podcasts on Spotify, and check us out on Threads,  Facebook,  Instagram,  LinkedIn and Tik Tok.

 

Photo source: Monaco Communications Department

Monaco’s Hugo Nys through to Australian Open quarter-final with French partner

by: Stephanie Horsman
21/01/2025

The newly formed partnership of Hugo Nys and Édouard Roger-Vasselin is making waves at the Australian Open. Representing both Monaco and France, the pair secured a spot in the men’s doubles quarter-final with a victory over Tomas Machac and Zhizhen Zhang on Monday 20th January.

The match against Czech player Machac and China’s Zhang lasted one hour and 48 minutes, ending with scores of 6-3, 3-6, 6-3. It was a showcase of Nys and Roger-Vasselin’s synergy and resilience on the court, despite being a relatively new pairing.

The Australian Open quarter-final match on Wednesday 22nd January promises to be a formidable and exciting test for Monegasque player Nys and his French partner; they will face Finland’s Harri Heliövaara and the UK’s Henry Patten, the No. 6 seeds in the competition and the reigning Wimbledon champions.

A doubles specialist, 33-year-old Nys achieved his career-high ATP doubles ranking of No. 12 in June 2023. He etched his name in the record books as the first Monegasque player to reach both the semi-final and final of a major tournament at the 2023 Australian Open, and now, with Roger-Vasselin by his side, Nys is once again hoping to prove his prowess on the international stage.

Roger-Vasselin, at 41 years old, brings a wealth of experience to the partnership. The Frenchman is a seasoned doubles player with two Grand Slam titles to his name: the 2014 French Open in men’s doubles with Julien Benneteau and the 2024 French Open in mixed doubles alongside Laura Siegemund. Remarkably, Roger-Vasselin remains the last French player in contention in the men’s doubles draw at this year’s Australian Open.

For Monaco, Nys’ achievements represent a source of pride and inspiration. His rise to prominence underscores the Principality’s growing influence in the world of tennis, and as the Australian Open unfolds, all eyes will be on this dynamic partnership as they aim to bring more glory to Monaco and France on the global stage.

Read related:

Game, set, match: Where to find the best tennis courts in and around Monaco

 

Monaco Life is produced by real multi-media journalists writing original content. See more in our free newsletter, follow our Podcasts on Spotify, and check us out on Threads,  Facebook,  Instagram,  LinkedIn and Tik Tok.

 

Photo source: Édouard Roger-Vasselin, Facebook