At a United Nations climate summit, global leaders emphasized their increased commitment to combating climate change following China’s announcement of a concrete emissions reduction target. Chinese President Xi Jinping revealed that China, the world’s largest carbon emitter, aims to cut emissions by seven to 10 percent by 2035. This pledge marked China’s first formal commitment to emission reduction, although falling short of the 30 percent reduction recommended by some experts to align with the global warming limit of 1.5 degrees Celsius.
Over 100 world leaders convened for a high-level UN climate summit to address the pressing need for enhanced efforts to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. China also outlined plans to boost wind and solar power, promote pollution-free vehicles, and establish a climate-resilient society.
Following China’s announcement, the European Union presented its emission reduction targets, aiming for a range of 66 to 72 percent. While these commitments demonstrate progress in the fight against climate change, experts caution that more ambitious targets are necessary to safeguard against climate impacts.
UN Secretary-General António Guterres highlighted the importance of transitioning to clean energy for sustainable economic growth and improved environmental and public health outcomes. However, some leaders expressed disappointment in China’s modest targets, calling for accelerated action to meet global climate objectives.
In response to criticisms from leaders like former Colombian President Juan Manuel Santos and EU climate commissioner Wopke Hoekstra, Xi and Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva emphasized the urgency of climate action and the need for global cooperation to address the challenges posed by climate change.
With the upcoming climate negotiations in Brazil, countries are urged to submit comprehensive plans to reduce carbon emissions in line with the goals of the Paris Agreement. The international community faces the critical task of limiting global warming to 1.5 degrees Celsius to mitigate the impacts of climate change and safeguard the planet’s future.