Claudia Sheinbaum

Claudia Sheinbaum Pardo, born on June 24, 1962, in Mexico City, represents a watershed moment in Mexico’s political history. As the country’s first female president and the first of Jewish heritage, Sheinbaum’s rise to leadership is a profound symbol of Mexico’s evolving identity, reflecting the growing importance of cultural diversity and gender equity in governance. Her paternal roots trace back to Ashkenazi Jews who emigrated from Lithuania in the 1920s, while her maternal family, of Sephardic descent, escaped from Bulgaria during the Holocaust. Raised in a secular household, Sheinbaum still embraced Jewish traditions, celebrating holidays with her grandparents, a connection to her heritage that resonates deeply as a beacon of inclusion in Mexican politics.

Sheinbaum’s academic accomplishments are as impressive as her political rise. She earned her undergraduate degree in physics from the National Autonomous University of Mexico (UNAM) in 1989, followed by a master’s degree in 1994 and a Ph.D. in energy engineering in 1995. During her doctoral research at Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory in California, she delved into the environmental impact of Mexico’s transportation sector and energy use in buildings, laying the groundwork for her future as a leader in sustainable development and climate action.

Returning to UNAM, Sheinbaum excelled as a faculty member at the Institute of Engineering, becoming a celebrated researcher. She earned prestigious memberships in the Mexican Academy of Sciences and the Sistema Nacional de Investigadores, culminating in a 1999 award for best young researcher in engineering and technological innovation. Her contributions extended beyond academia, as she took on a critical role in shaping global climate policy by contributing to the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) reports in both 2007 and 2013, cementing her status as an international expert on climate issues.

Sheinbaum’s move from science to politics was a natural progression. As the secretary of the environment under Andrés Manuel López Obrador from 2000 to 2006, she implemented groundbreaking policies aimed at reducing emissions and improving urban sustainability in Mexico City. Later, as mayor of the Tlalpan borough from 2015 to 2017, and then head of government of Mexico City in 2018, her administration focused on crime reduction and advancing environmental reforms, solidifying her reputation as a forward-thinking leader.

In 2023, Sheinbaum secured Morena’s presidential nomination after a highly competitive race, and in June 2024, she achieved a resounding victory in the general election. Her presidency, which begins on October 1, 2024, marks a milestone not only for gender equality but for the cultural transformation of Mexico. As the first Jewish president, Sheinbaum’s leadership is emblematic of Mexico’s increasing cultural diversity, making her a symbol of progress in both political and social spheres.

A President Committed to Climate Advocacy

Sheinbaum’s tenure is expected to be deeply defined by her unwavering commitment to addressing climate change. With her extensive background in science and environmental sustainability, she is poised to implement policies that build on her past work in promoting urban sustainability and reducing emissions. Her presidency comes at a crucial time for Mexico, as the country struggles with its current reliance on fossil fuels and lagging climate policies.

Mexico’s ranking in this year’s Climate Change Performance Index (CCPI) paints a concerning picture, as the nation has dropped to 38th place, down seven spots from the previous year. Despite receiving a medium rating in the GHG Emissions category, Mexico’s performance in Renewable Energy remains very low, while its rating in Climate Policy is also low. Fossil fuels continue to be the country’s main source of electricity, and existing measures to decarbonize the sector have been deemed insufficient. A key shortcoming, according to CCPI experts, is the government’s failure to continue renewable energy auctions, which had been a crucial tool for accelerating the expansion of renewable sources.

The Challenge of Fossil Fuel Dependency

Sheinbaum will face significant challenges in steering Mexico away from its deep dependence on fossil fuels. Currently, the country lacks a concrete plan to phase out fossil fuel use. In fact, subsidies for fossil fuels, particularly oil, have increased in recent years, and the government has doubled down on its fossil fuel investments by purchasing a refinery in Texas and building another domestically. These moves contradict the global push toward a clean energy transition, a shift that Sheinbaum will likely prioritize as part of her climate agenda.

Nevertheless, there have been some positive developments. Mexico has placed a moratorium on new oil and gas leasing rounds, a move welcomed by climate experts. However, without a comprehensive policy to phase out fossil fuels and bolster renewable energy investments, Mexico risks falling further behind in its climate commitments.

Energy Efficiency and Deforestation: Opportunities for Improvement

Mexico has made notable strides in energy efficiency, particularly in the industrial and building sectors, where mandatory energy efficiency requirements have been implemented. But challenges remain, particularly in addressing illegal deforestation. The General Law for Sustainable Forest Development (LGDFS) promotes reforestation but lacks a long-term strategy, and activities such as livestock production, urban expansion, and unauthorized land-use changes continue to drive deforestation, negatively impacting local communities and ecosystems.

Climate Policy Shortcomings and Expert Recommendations

Mexico updated its Nationally Determined Contribution (NDC) in 2022, increasing its ambition to reduce emissions by 35% by 2030 and aiming for net-zero emissions by 2050. However, CCPI experts note that current policies still favor fossil fuels, and there is no clear roadmap or accountability mechanisms in place to ensure these targets are met. The absence of a comprehensive plan to implement the NDC further weakens Mexico’s ability to achieve its climate goals.

Experts recommend that Mexico develop a stronger policy framework to gradually reduce oil and gas dependency, implement a just energy transition plan centered on renewable energy, and expand electrified public transport. Sheinbaum’s scientific expertise and political acumen will be crucial in advancing these recommendations and reversing Mexico’s downward trend in the CCPI rankings.

A Climate-Aware Scientist President in Mexico: Positive Impact on U.S. Climate Policy

The election of a climate-aware scientist as president of Mexico marks a transformative moment in the country’s history and offers the potential to reshape U.S. climate policy. As neighbors sharing economic, environmental, and political ties, the actions of one often ripple across the border. With Mexico now under the leadership of a president deeply committed to climate science and sustainability, the U.S. could face new pressures and opportunities to enhance its own environmental efforts. This chapter explores how Mexico’s new leadership can catalyze positive changes in U.S. climate policy and foster stronger bilateral collaboration.

A Shared Climate Challenge Across Borders

The U.S. and Mexico share more than just a border; they share the consequences of climate change. Extreme weather events like hurricanes, droughts, and heatwaves know no boundaries and affect both countries. As climate change accelerates, its impact is increasingly felt in cross-border issues such as air and water quality, agriculture, and migration. Addressing these challenges requires more than isolated national policies—it demands regional cooperation.

Mexico’s new president, with a scientific background rooted in energy efficiency and sustainable development, brings a fresh perspective to the leadership table. Her commitment to climate action and decarbonization aligns with the growing global urgency for collaboration. By addressing common environmental issues, she can push for stronger joint efforts, particularly in clean energy, emissions reduction, and the sustainable management of natural resources.

Clean Energy Collaboration: Unlocking North America’s Potential

One of the most promising avenues for U.S.-Mexico cooperation is the development of clean energy. Mexico has vast untapped potential in solar and wind energy, particularly in regions like Baja California and the Yucatán Peninsula. With its new leadership, Mexico is poised to accelerate renewable energy projects, which could have positive spillover effects in the U.S.

Both countries are in a position to benefit from cross-border clean energy projects. For the U.S., which is already making strides in renewable energy technology, a partnership with Mexico could help scale up the transition to cleaner energy sources. Border states like California and Texas—already leaders in solar and wind power—could partner with Mexico on renewable energy initiatives, creating an integrated North American clean energy grid. This could not only reduce emissions in both countries but also boost job creation and economic growth in the clean energy sector.

Mexico’s scientist-president, with her expertise in energy policy, is well-equipped to foster this kind of cross-border collaboration. Her emphasis on sustainable energy could inspire joint ventures in renewable energy infrastructure, battery storage, and smart grid technologies, further integrating the two countries’ energy systems and aligning them with global climate goals.

Influencing U.S. Climate Policy Through Leadership by Example

Mexico’s new president brings an evidence-based, science-driven approach to climate governance, something that has been lacking in many countries, including the U.S., where climate policy has been subject to political debate. Her leadership could set an example for the U.S., particularly at a time when American climate policy is under global scrutiny.

The U.S., especially under states with progressive environmental agendas like California, may find a strong ally in Mexico’s new president. Her administration’s policies could create pressure for U.S. federal policymakers to adopt more ambitious climate goals. For instance, if Mexico accelerates its efforts to phase out fossil fuels and shifts towards renewable energy, the U.S. might feel compelled to strengthen its own climate action in order to remain competitive on the global stage.

Furthermore, as Mexico introduces stricter regulations on emissions and more robust environmental policies, the U.S. could face increased pressure to adopt similar measures to avoid being seen as lagging behind its southern neighbor. A bilateral agreement on climate policy—focused on reducing emissions, enhancing energy efficiency, and promoting sustainable agriculture—could be an outcome of this new political alignment.

Border States as Key Players in Cross-Border Climate Action

U.S. states that border Mexico, particularly California, Arizona, and Texas, are uniquely positioned to benefit from enhanced climate collaboration. California, with its ambitious climate goals, could form a strong partnership with Mexico in areas like carbon reduction, clean energy development, and cross-border conservation initiatives. California’s leadership in emissions trading and renewable energy provides a blueprint for cooperation that could be expanded with Mexico’s new climate-focused administration.

Border states also share many environmental challenges with Mexico, from water scarcity to air quality. Joint initiatives to address these issues—such as water conservation projects, emissions monitoring, and sustainable infrastructure development—could emerge under Mexico’s new climate leadership. These collaborative efforts could serve as models for federal action, demonstrating how subnational governments can lead the way in cross-border environmental policy.

A New Era of Bilateral Climate Diplomacy

Mexico’s climate-aware leadership offers the opportunity to reshape the U.S.-Mexico relationship, shifting it towards a more environmentally focused partnership. Both nations have committed to emissions reductions under the Paris Agreement, but progress has been slow, particularly in Mexico, where fossil fuels still dominate the energy landscape. However, with a scientist at the helm, Mexico is better positioned to lead by example and push the U.S. to take more decisive climate action.

As Mexico prioritizes renewable energy, sustainable urban development, and climate resilience, it can encourage the U.S. to adopt more comprehensive and aggressive climate policies. The potential for a bilateral climate agreement—centered on reducing greenhouse gas emissions, phasing out fossil fuels, and expanding renewable energy—could become a focal point of U.S.-Mexico relations in the coming years.

Claudia Sheinbaum’s Role

Claudia Sheinbaum’s ascent to the presidency is emblematic of broader global shifts where climate advocacy, cultural diversity, and gender equality are becoming central to leadership. Her unique blend of scientific knowledge, political experience, and cultural heritage positions her to drive transformative policies not only for Mexico but for the broader Latin American region.

As Sheinbaum assumes office, her presidency will likely mark a pivotal chapter in Mexico’s environmental and political landscape. In 2006, she joined the UN’s Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) — becoming a member of the team that would win the Nobel Peace Prize the following year, CNN reported. Her deep understanding of climate science, coupled with her commitment to social equity, positions her as a leader capable of confronting Mexico’s environmental challenges while promoting a more inclusive and sustainable future for all.

The election of a climate-aware scientist as Mexico’s president represents a new chapter for U.S.-Mexico relations, one that could pivot the two countries toward a shared vision of environmental sustainability. Mexico’s scientific leadership could inspire the U.S. to adopt more ambitious climate policies, particularly in clean energy development and emissions reduction. Through collaboration on climate issues, the two nations could create a powerful model for regional environmental leadership that benefits not only North America but the global fight against climate change.

By working together, Mexico and the U.S. have the potential to lead the way in climate action, proving that cooperation across borders can be a driving force in addressing the most critical challenge of our time.