China's Climate Commitments Ahead of COP30
China is responsible for over 30% of global greenhouse gas emissions—about 15.6 gigatons of CO2 equivalent in 2024, based on recent UN data. While its total historical and per capita emissions remain lower than those of the United States, China's emissions are rapidly increasing.
Energy and Emissions
Coal, a significant pollution source, made up nearly 60% of China's power generation in the previous year. At the same time, China is rapidly expanding renewable energy installations, helping to satisfy growing electricity demand.
Electric Vehicle Market Leadership
China dominates the electric vehicle sector, producing over 70% of global electric vehicles. Nearly half of new cars sold in China in 2024 were electric battery-powered or plug-in hybrids, according to the International Energy Agency.
Emission Reduction Targets
In September, China announced its first quantitative greenhouse gas reduction goals, promising a 7-10% cut in emissions by 2035. However, it did not specify a baseline year for these targets. Experts argue that achieving the climate goal of limiting warming to 1.5°C above pre-industrial levels requires a reduction closer to 30% from 2023 emissions.
"China needs to cut emissions by closer to 30 percent from 2023 levels to keep global temperatures from rising over 1.5C above pre-industrial levels."
Author's summary: China remains the largest greenhouse gas emitter but is expanding renewable energy and electric vehicle use, while its recent emission targets may fall short of the reductions needed to meet global climate goals.