Reflection: China's Response to Climate Change
Yalin Xin, PhD, is associate professor of intercultural studies at William Carey International University and the Director of WCIU’s Institute of China Studies. His research interest includes Christian renewal and revitalization movements and Christianity in China.
The 26th UN Climate Change Conference of the Parties (COP26) just kicked off its two-week summit in Glasgow on Oct. 31, 2021. It is a highly anticipated global event focusing on the following goals:
1) securing global net zero by mid-century and keeping 1.5 degrees within reach,
2) adapting to protect communities and natural habitats,
3) mobilizing at least $100 billion in climate finance per year, and
4) working together to deliver.[1]
A few days before COP26 summit, the State Council Information Office of China issued a white paper on Oct. 27, Responding to Climate Change: China’s Policies and Actions, in four chapters, elaborating China’s philosophy, strategies, experiences, and achievements in addressing climate change, and a proposal for building a fair and cooperative global climate governance.[2]
Obviously, as the world’s largest current greenhouse gas emitter (though its per capita emissions have remained considerably lower than those in the developed world),[3] China’s role and pledges (nationally determined contribution, or NDC) in responding to climate change draw a lot of attention, especially from climate watchers. Some are already critical of China’s NDC as “not offer(ing) anything new.”[4]
The white paper expounds the synergistic effect of economic development and carbon reduction, highlighting key achievements:
In 2020, China’s carbon emission intensity was reduced by 48.4% while the GDP quadrupled compared with 2005, and 100 million people were lifted out of extreme poverty.
Low-carbon industry feeds into green development, i.e., China’s new energy vehicle production and sales have led the world for six years running and China's wind power and photovoltaic power generation equipment manufacturing has formed the world's most complete industrial chain.
Green and low-carbon lifestyle is promoted in the society, and climate change and green development is highlighted in national educational systems
The white paper also stresses the need for “building a fair and rational global climate governance system for win-win results” and proposes China’s initiative in responding to climate change:
A fundamental solution to climate change needs to be coordinated within the framework of sustainable development.
In the face of humanity’s common challenge of climate change, multilateralism, unity, and cooperation should be promoted for mutual benefit and win-win results.
Adhere to the principle of common but differentiated responsibilities as the cornerstone of global climate governance in consideration of the special needs of the developing countries vs the capacity of the developed countries.
Climate change threatens all of humanity and therefore demands the international communities to deepen partnerships and cooperation in their responses.
Taking actions necessary to follow through promises is key in combating climate change.
Based on these initiatives, China will fulfill its NDC goals, basically, by 2030, peaking its emissions of carbon dioxide by 2030; lowering the carbon emissions by 65 percent compared with 2005 levels; raising the share of non-fossil fuels in its primary energy consumption to 25%; and increasing wind and solar power capacity to over 1,200 gigawatts), commit itself to working with all parties to promote the implementation of the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change and Paris Agreement, and promote the building of a global community with a shared future.
End Notes
[1] COP26 official website: https://ukcop26.org/cop26-goals/
[2] See the White Paper on Chinese government official website: http://www.gov.cn/zhengce/2021-10/27/content_5646697.htm
[3] Rhodium Group 2021. “China’s Greenhouse Gas Emissions Exceeded the Developed World for the First Time in 2019.” Accessed Oct. 31, 2021. https://rhg.com/research/chinas-emissions-surpass-developed-countries/
[4] Aljazeera 2021. “China’s revised climate pledge ‘casts shadow’ over Glasgow summit.” Accessed Oct. 21, 2021. https://www.aljazeera.com/news/2021/10/29/china-offers-few-new-climate-targets-ahead-of-un-conference