In a video message to the United Nations (UN) in September: ChinaChinese President Xi Jinping announced the very first plan determination of set goals for reducing greenhouse gas emissions.
Under the new plan, the country aims to reduce emissions by 7-10% by 2035. As the world's largest emitter, China has the potential to influence the global fight against climate change.
The pledge is notable because it is the first time China has set specific emissions reduction targets. Research shows that the goals set are achievable. Supporters claim that China will not renege on—and may even exceed—its commitments.
Some expressed concernHowever, China calls the Nationally Determined Contribution (NDC) – the country's climate action plan – as insufficient to meet its goal of limiting warming to 2.7 degrees Fahrenheit (1.5 degrees Celsius) above pre-industrial levels within Paris Agreement. However, many see this as important moment in global climate policy.
“China's new climate target is both disappointing and transformative” Andreas SieberThis was stated by the Deputy Director of Policy and Campaigns at 350.org, an international environmental non-governmental organization. statement. “Reducing emissions by 7% to 10% by 2035 from peak levels does not meet the world's needs, but it puts the world's largest emitter on a path where clean technologies drive economic leadership.”
China, the US and India were the largest emitters in 2024, according to the study. Emissions Database for Global Atmospheric Research. In 2024, China accounted for about 29% of global greenhouse gas emissions. In contrast, the US contribution was 11.1% and India's contribution was 8.2%.
At the same time, China is moving rapidly forward in renewable energy, setting a record 1200 GW of wind and solar capacity by the end of 2024 — surpassing the 2030 target set by the National Energy Administration six years earlier. While coal still dominates China's power generation, these developments suggest the country may be ready to meet its new climate goals.
So what do you think? Does China's new goal position it as a true global leader in the fight against climate change – or is this promise too little, too late? Answer our poll and let us know what you think in the comments below.
