China, the world’s leading emitter of greenhouse gases, has adopted an innovative energy law to support its climate objectives. This law aims to frame the transition towards a greener economy, with a carbon neutrality target set for 2060. This initiative, widely reported by state media, reflects Beijing’s commitment to addressing global warming.
Chinese authorities have defined this law as a tool to achieve the peak of carbon dioxide emissions by the end of the decade, followed by a net reduction to zero by 2060. According to reports from Xinhua, the state news agency, this legislation encourages high-quality energy development and ensures energy security, while meeting the requirements of a low-carbon economy.
A Turnaround Ahead of COP29
This new law comes just days before the start of COP29, the UN climate summit, scheduled in Baku. The legislation strengthens China’s position as a central player in international climate negotiations and aligns with the Paris Agreement, which calls for keeping global warming below 2°C, preferably 1.5°C.
The year 2024, marked by record heat, underscores the urgency of these actions. According to Copernicus, the climate monitoring service of the European Union, the current year is on track to become the hottest on record. This finding calls for intensified efforts by states, an imperative that China appears to have integrated with this new legislation.
Major Energy Challenges
Beijing, which already has the largest installed capacity in renewable energy, continues to diversify its energy resources. The country produces nearly twice as much wind and solar energy as all other nations combined, confirming its role as a global leader in clean energy. The recently adopted law addresses energy planning and utilization aspects to secure the transition to sustainable energy and ensure energy independence.
Extreme Weather Conditions: A Catalyst
China experienced extreme climatic episodes this summer, including heatwaves in the north and flooding in certain central and southern provinces. These recurring climate events underline the importance of the ongoing energy transformation. Scientists estimate that climate change will intensify these phenomena, a point that the Chinese government incorporates into its energy policies.
The new measures adopted in this law aim not only to reduce emissions but also to strengthen infrastructure to withstand the impacts of a changing climate. The text of the law, although detailed on major guidelines, has not yet specified concrete implementation modalities, leaving room for possible adaptation based on scientific and technological developments.
