In 2024, China recorded its highest average temperatures in decades, with significant impacts on weather patterns and climate policies. The national average temperature reached 10.92°C, exceeding previous records and highlighting the urgent need for effective climate action.
Experts are increasingly optimistic that China’s CO2 emissions could peak by 2025, driven by a rapid transition to renewable energy sources and stricter controls on coal consumption. Recent studies indicate that 44% of experts believe emissions will peak by this date, a notable increase from previous years.
Despite this optimism, China is struggling to meet its energy efficiency goals. The government has set a modest target of reducing energy intensity by only 2.5% in 2024, falling short of the necessary reductions to achieve its broader climate commitments by 2025.
As the world’s largest emitter of greenhouse gases, China’s actions are critical for global climate efforts. The country must enhance its climate policies to align with international targets and mitigate the effects of climate change effectively.