Xi commits China to full climate plan but emissions-cutting ambition still unclear

President Xi Jinping of China has pledged to create a comprehensive plan to reduce emissions, which will include all economic sectors and greenhouse gases for the first time, as part of the UN climate process. In a speech emphasizing China’s commitment to global climate action, Xi stated that China will continue its efforts to address climate change despite any changes in the international situation. China aims to establish new emission reduction targets by 2035 covering the entire economy and all greenhouse gases ahead of the COP30 summit in November. This move is crucial in limiting global warming in accordance with the goals of the Paris Agreement, as China is the world’s largest emitter of methane through its coal mining and farming sectors. UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres praised Xi’s announcement on China’s upcoming emission reduction targets as a significant step for climate action.

After the missed deadline for nations to submit their updated emission reduction targets, Brazil’s COP30 presidency and UN officials are urging countries to set new goals by September. During a recent meeting of global leaders, Brazil encouraged larger economies like the European Union and China to commit to reducing greenhouse gas emissions to keep global warming well below 2 degrees Celsius, as agreed upon in the Paris Agreement. While experts welcomed Xi’s statements on China’s climate policy, there are concerns about the level of ambition in the nation’s emission reduction plans. China has set goals to peak CO2 emissions before 2030 and achieve carbon neutrality by 2060, but questions remain about the specifics of its emission reduction targets for different sectors and gases.

Xi’s involvement in setting emission reduction targets is seen as crucial for ensuring strong commitments from the government. In his address at the UN meeting, Xi emphasized the importance of supporting multilateral climate action and international cooperation for the advancement of green technologies, indirectly criticizing US policies under President Donald Trump. Xi highlighted the green transition as essential for addressing climate change and as a driver for economic and social development.