BEIJING: China’s Meteorological Administration (CMA) is intensifying its international collaboration on climate change adaptation by developing cloud-based early warning systems with several key nations across Africa, South Asia, Southeast Asia, and the South Pacific.
This initiative, highlighted by CMA Administrator Dr. Chen Zhenlin during a recent conference in Beijing, is part of China’s broader strategy to enhance its role in global climate resilience by 2025, particularly in conjunction with the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI)
Key Features of the Initiative
- Cloud-Based Early Warning System: The proposed system aims to facilitate early disaster prevention and response efforts by delivering timely and accurate meteorological information to regions vulnerable to climate change.
- Global Cooperation: The CMA’s efforts are aligned with findings from the Global Cooperation Barometer 2025, which noted improvements in global cooperation on climate goals and emphasized the need for urgent action to meet net-zero targets due to rising global emissions.
Recent Developments
- Action Plan Publication: At COP29, China unveiled its Action Plan on Early Warning for Climate Change Adaptation (2025-2027), committing to assist developing countries in enhancing their early warning capabilities.
- Technological Sharing: The initiative reflects China’s commitment to sharing its meteorological and satellite technologies with the international community. CMA’s FY satellites are already integral to global weather monitoring systems and have expanded services to 132 countries.
International Collaboration
- Previous Assistance: In August 2024, China provided critical satellite data and forecasting services to Yemen during severe flooding, showcasing its commitment to international support. Moreover, CMA has upgraded satellite data broadcasting systems for meteorological departments in 13 countries, including Malaysia and Pakistan.
- Training Programs: More than 1,400 trainees from 92 countries have received training in FY satellite technologies, further emphasizing China’s intent to bolster early warning systems globally.
China’s initiative to develop cloud-based early warning systems is a significant step towards enhancing global climate resilience. By leveraging technological advancements and fostering international cooperation, China aims to play a pivotal role in addressing the challenges posed by climate change while supporting vulnerable regions through improved disaster preparedness and response capabilities.