A Bold Vision at UN Climate Summit
At the United Nations Climate Summit 2025, Chinese President Xi Jinping laid out a set of updated Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs) aimed at steering the world toward a greener future. This marks the first time the country has pledged an absolute reduction in economy-wide emissions covering all greenhouse gases.
Cracking the Numbers
- Cut net greenhouse gas emissions 7 6% from peak levels by 2035
- Raise the share of non-fossil fuels in total energy consumption to over 30%
- Expand wind and solar capacity to 3,600 gigawatts 6six times 2020 levels
- Boost total forest stock volume to more than 24 billion cubic meters
Early Progress in the Chinese mainland
Since announcing its dual carbon goals in 2020 6to peak carbon dioxide emissions before 2030 and reach carbon neutrality before 2060 6the Chinese mainland has ramped up its green transition. The share of non-fossil energy in overall consumption climbed from 15.9% in 2020 to 19.8% in 2024. Installed renewable capacity and forest stock volume have already hit the 2030 milestones ahead of schedule.
Fueling Global Cooperation
Beyond its borders, China has deepened South-South cooperation on climate change and promoted green Belt and Road cooperation, delivering public goods for low-carbon industrial upgrades across the Global South. These new NDCs have bolstered international confidence, built stronger consensus, and injected fresh momentum into worldwide climate governance.
Looking Ahead
Analysts say China’s updated targets could inspire other major emitters to elevate their ambitions, reinforcing the global push to meet the Paris Agreement goals. With less than a decade to 2030, the world needs every partner 6and every ton of carbon cut 6to stay on track.
As climate challenges intensify, China’s concrete commitments serve as a rallying cry for collective action on our shared planet.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
