China Announces First-Ever Carbon Reduction Target at UN Climate Summit
United Nations (UN): China, the world’s largest carbon polluter, has announced for the first time a goal of cutting carbon emissions by 7–10% by 2035, signaling a shift in its climate strategy. The declaration was made by Chinese President Xi Jinping during the UN High-Level Climate Summit on Wednesday, where more than 100 world leaders gathered to discuss urgent steps against global warming and extreme weather.
Currently responsible for over 31% of global carbon emissions, China has long been under scrutiny for its steadily rising pollution levels. Xi also pledged that China will expand its wind and solar capacity sixfold from 2020 levels, promote non-polluting vehicles, and strengthen resilience against the impacts of climate change.
At the summit, several countries, including European nations, presented their own climate plans, highlighting strategies such as carbon taxation and investment in renewable energy. European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen noted that Europe has cut emissions by about 40% since 1940 and is pushing for stronger commitments, with member states set to submit updated climate plans before November’s talks.
Meanwhile, both Xi Jinping and Brazilian President Lula da Silva indirectly criticized former US President Donald Trump, who has long dismissed renewable energy and climate change concerns. Xi remarked that even if “some countries retreat, the world must keep moving in the right direction.” Lula added that climate disasters recognize no borders: “Walls cannot stop droughts or hurricanes. Nature fears neither bombs nor warships. No country is above another—we can all lose if denial wins.”
UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres urged nations to commit to deeper cuts in emissions from coal, oil, and gas, emphasizing: “Science demands action. The law mandates it. The economy makes it necessary. And the people are demanding it.”
The announcement marks a significant moment in global climate diplomacy, with future international climate talks scheduled to be held in Brazil in six and a half years.
