China's Groundbreaking Commitment to Climate Action
China, the world's largest emitter of greenhouse gases, has made a significant announcement regarding its climate goals. On September 24, President Xi Jinping revealed at a United Nations climate summit that the nation would reduce its greenhouse gas emissions by 7 to 10 percent by 2035. This marks the first time China has committed to an absolute reduction target rather than merely slowing the growth of emissions, signaling a shift in its environmental strategy.
This pledge builds on earlier commitments made by President Xi in 2021 to peak emissions by 2030 and achieve carbon neutrality by 2060. According to reports, China's emissions may have already plateaued, five years ahead of the previously set target. Additionally, Xi outlined plans to increase the share of non-fossil fuels in the country's energy mix to over 30 percent within the next decade, focusing on solar, wind, and hydropower sources to replace coal dependency.
Global Implications and Criticisms of the Target
While China's announcement has been hailed as a landmark step, it has also drawn criticism for not being ambitious enough. UN Secretary-General António Guterres emphasized the urgency of drastic emission reductions in the coming years to keep global temperature rises under 1.5 degrees Celsius, as agreed in the Paris Agreement. 'We absolutely need countries to come with climate action plans that are fully aligned with 1.5 degrees, that cover the whole of their economies and the whole of their greenhouse gas emissions,' Guterres stated.
Climate experts and analysts have noted that a 7 to 10 percent reduction falls short of what is required to align with global climate goals. Some suggest that a reduction of at least 30 percent from current levels is necessary to meet the Paris Agreement's targets. Despite this, China's role as a leader in green energy—supplying 80 percent of solar panels, 60 percent of wind turbines, and 75 percent of electric vehicles globally—positions it as a critical player in the international fight against climate change.
Looking Ahead: Challenges and Opportunities
As China prepares its 2035 Nationally Determined Contribution (NDC) for submission before COP30, questions remain about how these targets will be implemented across all economic sectors. The upcoming 15th Five-Year Plan (2026-2030) will be pivotal in outlining policies for rapid decarbonization. Executive Vice-Premier Ding Xuexiang confirmed at COP29 in Baku that the 2035 pledge would cover all greenhouse gases and sectors, though alignment with the 1.5-degree goal was not explicitly mentioned.
China's dual role as both a major emitter and a powerhouse in clean energy technology presents unique challenges and opportunities. While some critics, including EU climate commissioner Wopke Hoekstra, expressed disappointment with the level of ambition—stating, 'This level of ambition is clearly disappointing'—others see this as a starting point for greater international collaboration. The global community watches closely as China balances economic growth with its new environmental commitments, hoping for more robust action in the years ahead.