- China’s failure to meet emissions targets risks credibility in global climate talks.
- Experts urge increased energy conservation and carbon reduction efforts to bridge the emissions gap.
Mounting scrutiny faces China as it falls short of crucial emissions targets, risking its credibility in global climate talks. Driven by energy security concerns, China’s need for more political resolve raises concerns among experts about addressing the emissions gap.
The National Development and Reform Commission (NDRC) pledged to enhance energy conservation and carbon reduction efforts after failing to meet expectations in 2023. However, China must still catch up on its targets to reduce energy intensity by 13.5 per cent and carbon intensity by 18 per cent between 2021 and 2025.
With 2024 targets falling well below requirements, experts warn of potential repercussions on China’s ability to curb emissions and its diplomatic credibility. Criticism mounts as China resists ramping up climate ambition despite being the world’s largest carbon emitter.
International pressure mounts as China’s emissions account for a substantial portion of the global total, exceeding the OECD average by 15 per cent per capita. Experts recommend improving efficiency in critical sectors like industry and construction to address the shortfall.
Increasing financial support for companies to upgrade outdated facilities is also essential. Additionally, expanding the carbon market could effectively accelerate emission reductions.