China’s emissions are peaking. Bringing them down will be the hard part

Illuminem summarizes for you the essential news of the day. Read the full piece on The Washington Post or enjoy below:

🗞️ Driving the news: China’s greenhouse gas emissions, the highest globally, are likely peaking this year due to renewable energy growth and reduced construction
• However, the crucial question remains: will emissions decline sharply or plateau? The decision will significantly impact global efforts to limit warming to 1.5°C

🔭 The context: China accounts for half of all global greenhouse gases since 2000 and burns more coal than the rest of the world combined
• While producing most of the world’s solar panels and wind turbines, its vast and growing energy demands, including heavy reliance on coal, challenge rapid decarbonization
• Historical data shows no major economy has sharply reduced emissions immediately after peaking

🌍 Why it matters for the planet: If China’s emissions plateau at 13 gigatons per year, meeting the Paris Agreement targets becomes nearly impossible
• A sharp decline, however, could cut 3 gigatons annually by 2035—greater than the EU’s total emissions—and set a vital precedent for other nations

⏭️ What's next: China is expected to announce updated climate targets by February, with analysts advocating a 30% emissions reduction by 2035
• However, the country’s economic dependence on energy-intensive industries complicates its transition, especially as global energy demands and trade tensions rise

💬 One quote: “Reaching peak emissions is taking your foot off the accelerator… but if you are driving a car over a cliff, you need to also apply the brakes really fast.” – Neil Grant, Climate Analytics

📈 One stat: China’s electricity consumption growth over the last three years equals Germany’s total annual usage, underscoring the scale of its energy challenges

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