China has made notable progress in green and low-carbon development over the past five years. The government released a white paper on Saturday highlighting these achievements and their global significance.
Titled “Carbon Peaking and Carbon Neutrality China’s Plans and Solutions,” the paper details China’s efforts, actions, and experiences in achieving peak carbon and promoting carbon neutrality.
Over the past two decades, China contributed roughly one-fourth of all newly added green areas worldwide. It also achieved one of the fastest declines in energy consumption intensity globally. These efforts have created a model for other developing nations.
Since announcing its peak carbon and carbon neutrality goals in 2020, China has taken concrete steps to transition to green energy. Officials emphasized the principle that clean water and lush landscapes are invaluable assets.
China has built the world’s most systematic carbon reduction policy framework. It has also developed the largest renewable energy system and the most comprehensive new energy industrial chain worldwide. Furthermore, China leads in the adoption of new energy vehicles.
The country’s actions align with the Paris Agreement. China set ambitious Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs) and has worked steadily to meet its targets. At the UN Climate Summit in September 2025, China updated its 2035 NDCs, providing fresh momentum for global climate governance.
Under the 2035 plan, China aims to cut economy-wide greenhouse gas emissions by 7 to 10 percent from peak levels. Non-fossil fuels will account for over 30 percent of energy consumption. Wind and solar capacity will expand more than sixfold to 3,600 gigawatts.
China has consistently submitted greenhouse gas inventories, climate reports, and transparency reports on schedule, demonstrating compliance and responsibility. The country also supports green energy projects in Belt and Road partner nations.
The white paper notes that despite challenges in global climate governance, green development is an irreversible trend. Officials stressed that only through concrete actions can climate goals be achieved and the planet protected.
