China's CO2 emissions have been flat or falling for past 18 months
12 days ago
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- China's CO2 emissions have been flat or declining for 18 months, suggesting it may have peaked emissions ahead of its 2030 target.
- Solar and wind power generation grew by 46% and 11% respectively in Q3 2025, helping stabilize emissions despite rising electricity demand.
- China added 240GW of solar and 61GW of wind capacity in the first nine months of 2025, setting a renewable energy record.
- Emissions in the travel, cement, and steel industries declined, contributing to flat overall CO2 emissions in Q3 2025.
- China's dual carbon goals are peak emissions by 2030 and carbon neutrality by 2060, but experts say its 2035 targets are too modest.
- China may miss its 2020-2025 carbon intensity reduction target, requiring steeper cuts to meet its 2030 goal.
- The 15th five-year plan (2026-2030) is expected to prioritize low-carbon energy systems, though details will be released next year.