China, which has long seen its carbon dioxide emissions soar, is to increase its wind and solar energy sixfold from 2020 levels, increase the production of electric cars and "in principle establish a climate-adapted society", according to Xi Jinping.
The country has been criticized for its modest goals of reducing emissions starting in 2030, to reach a net zero level by 2060. Now, the peak appears to have already been reached. According to preliminary figures, China's carbon dioxide emissions have been falling since the beginning of last year, and decreased by 1 percent in the first half of this year.
Thus, the 2030 goal has been reached five years ahead of schedule. China accounts for nearly 30 percent of global carbon dioxide emissions.
The decision came after UN Secretary-General António Guterres on Wednesday called for a special high-level climate meeting in the General Assembly. The purpose is to focus on specific plans to reduce emissions from coal, oil, and natural gas ahead of the climate meeting in Brazil in November.
Science demands action, the law demands it, the economy forces us to do it and the people demand it, said Guterres.
