China, the world’s largest greenhouse gas emitter, now represents close to 30% of annual global emissions. Led by President Donald Trump, the United States is aggressively pushing fossil fuels. China is preparing to supplant the US as the dominant actor on international climate diplomacy. China, meanwhile, is preparing to announce a second emissions-cutting plan. This new initiative could position the country as the world’s most steadfast supporter of global climate efforts, as well as boost its reputation as a leader in green technology.
China’s upcoming plan is significant. It may determine whether the global community can meet the Paris Agreement’s goal of limiting warming to “well below 2°C.” This ambitious federal strategy aims at addressing all sectors of the economy and all greenhouse gases for the first time. It highlights China’s pledge to reach peak carbon dioxide emissions before 2030 and become net-zero emissions by 2060.
China’s Role in Climate Diplomacy
In recent years, China has grown into one of the most influential forces behind global climate discussions. The nation has astutely placed itself as a chosen partner, leaning in heavily on stability in the face of changing political tides. This reliability is ever more important as countries pursue ambitious domestic climate policy amidst complicated international relations.
Chinese Premier Li Qiang will get the forthcoming mini summit started as the first speaker. He’s slated to release the new climate emissions reduction plan at this event. This event is China’s best opportunity to demonstrate its leadership and ambition and spell out its vision for a sustainable development pathway.
Helen Clarkson, CEO of The Climate Group, highlighted China’s approach: “The China approach is ‘We’ll set a modest target then outperform it.’” This kind of strategy has pushed China to the forefront on renewable energy. The country has achieved extraordinary progress in new solar technology, with farms and facilities installed throughout provinces such as Shandong.
The Competitive Climate Landscape
China’s push for climate leadership comes at a time when the United States has redefined its energy strategy, promoting fossil fuels and threatening punitive measures against countries engaging in carbon pricing systems through the International Maritime Organization. This duality establishes a hyper-competitive environment in which nations face immense pressure to choose wisely.
Manish Bapna, president of the Natural Resources Defense Council, noted the pressure countries face: “Countries are confronted with competing sales pitches, as China tries to sell them solar panels and the US pushes LNG.” As energy markets increasingly turn upside down, countries will have to figure out how to balance these competing agendas while avoiding climate disaster.
China’s investments and commitment to renewable energy make it a natural leader on the world stage. This strategy fulfills its long-term economic development goals. As Clarkson himself explains, the Chinese government is able to fund and implement these ambitiously grand plans because of their political system’s structure.
A Global Responsibility
China’s new climate diplomacy face serious obstacles. As one of the world’s largest climate emitters, it has a profound responsibility to lead on climate action. The world’s largest developing nation needs to reconcile its fast economic growth with its environmental responsibility.
The balancing act of cutting emissions while ensuring an equitable transition is reflected in the new plan — due to serve as a model for nations across the globe. Ana Toni, Executive Director of Climate Action Network, expressed hope for global collaboration: “We are expecting China to continue on the right path. Let us hope that the other players will do the same.”
At the same time, China is doubling down on its emissions reduction commitments. Simultaneously, it is strengthening its green technology industry to lead by example and motivate other countries to follow suit. The results of its programs will be tracked with great interest, as they have major ramifications for international climate aims.