China's climate goals for 2035 will cover the entire economy and include all greenhouse gases.
This statement was made by the leader of the People's Republic of China, Xi Jinping, at the global climate talks held on April 23. It was reported by Bloomberg with reference to the Chinese state television company CCTV.
“It is important for all countries to uphold the rule of law, fulfill commitments, prioritize green and low-carbon development, and jointly respond to the climate crisis through multilateral governance,” the Chinese broadcaster quoted Xi as saying.
The country, which accounted for about 30% of total emissions in 2023, will set new emission reduction targets by 2035 that “will cover all areas of the economy, including all greenhouse gases,” ahead of the COP30 summit in November, Xi said.
Non-carbon dioxide pollution accounts for about 17% of China's emissions, which is higher than the total climate footprint of most countries in the world.
Distribution of global greenhouse gas emissions
The Chinese leader also assured that regardless of how the international situation changes, China's active response to climate change will not slow down, its commitment to strengthening international cooperation will not weaken, and efforts to promote a community with a common future for humanity will not stop.
The publication recalled that Chinese officials have previously made similar promises to include economy-wide targets in the next emissions reduction plan and to address greenhouse gases other than carbon dioxide, such as methane and nitrous oxide.
“However, Xi's decision to confirm these plans at a forum attended by heads of state and government shows that China will not back down from its ambitions despite the falling economy, the impact of tariffs, and the US retreat from climate policy under President Donald Trump,” Bloomberg said.
The publication emphasized that the virtual meeting of world leaders, organized by the UN and Brazil, was not attended by representatives of the United States.
As EcoPolitic recently reported, China has approved two international standards for greenhouse gas emissions.
