Transcriptional activator involved in abiotic stress tolerance. Can directly regulate stress-related gene expression by binding to the DNA sequence 5'-[AG]CCGAC-3' (DRE element) of their promoter region. Involved in the regulation of stomatal closure movement under drought stress (PubMed:23625358). Acts as a positive regulator of drought stress response (PubMed:22095047). Interacts with RGLG1 and RGLG2. Induced by drought stress (PubMed:18550687, PubMed:22095047, PubMed:23625358). Induced by salt stress (PubMed:22095047). Induced by abscisic acid (ABA) and heat stress (PubMed:23625358). Ubiquitinated by RGLG2. Ubiquitination of ERF053 leads to its degradation by the proteasome. Belongs to the AP2/ERF transcription factor family. ERF subfamily.