History of American Climate Corps in Timeline

The American Climate Corps was a US government initiative launched in September 2023 by the Biden administration to train 20,000 young people for jobs in public service or the private sector related to climate change prevention. It was a multi-agency project led by NOAA and several other departments. However, on January 20, 2025, President Trump terminated the program via executive order, effectively canceling all related activities and agreements.

September 2023: American Climate Corps Launched

In September 2023, the Biden administration launched the American Climate Corps as a national service focused on climate change prevention. It is a government interagency project between the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration and several other departments.

November 2023: Department of Energy Allocates Grants for Energy Efficient Building Technologies

In November 2023, the United States Department of Energy will allocate $10 million in grants to support training for certifications in energy efficient building technologies. Grant applicants must submit a community benefits plan by 27 November 2023.

December 2023: Termination of American Climate Corps Memorandum of Understanding

In December 2023, following the executive order to cancel the American Climate Corps, the Secretary of the Interior was instructed to terminate the 'American Climate Corps Memorandum of Understanding'.

April 2024: American Climate Corps Expected to Begin Functioning

Building from the existence and success of other climate corps programs such as SEI's Climate Corps and California Climate Action Corp, the American Climate Corps is expected to begin functioning in April 2024 with several hundred members. The tasks will "likely include things like installing solar panels, restoring vulnerable habitats, and fire hazard prevention."

June 2024: First Class of American Climate Corps Members Sworn In

In mid June 2024, the first class of American Climate Corps members was sworn in. By the end of that month, the number of members in place was expected to reach 9,000.

2024: Forest Corps Established through US Forest Service Partnership

In 2024, the Climate Corps established a 5-year, $15 million partnership through the US Forest Service for creating a Forest Corps, prioritizing wildfire crisis management. The Forest Corps plans to employ 80 people aged 18–26, with compensation including lodging, transportation, clothing, a living allowance, and health benefits, equivalent to $15 per hour.

2024: Earth Day Launch of American Climate Corps Website

On Earth Day 2024, Biden officially launched the American Climate Corps' website, in which people can apply for the available jobs. 2,000 jobs were already available when the declaration was made. More than 42,000 people expressed interest in participating.

2025: Climate Corps Canceled by President Trump

In 2025, President Trump canceled the American Climate Corps via executive order.

2031: Planned Expansion of American Climate Corps

By 2031, the Biden administration planned to have 50,000 new members added to the American Climate Corps each year. However, this plan is strongly opposed by Republicans.