background image

COP28 explainer: why hasn’t China signed the tripling renewables pledge?

author image

By illuminem briefings

· 2 min read


illuminem summarizes for you the essential news of the day. Read the full piece on Energy Monitor or enjoy below:

🗞️ Driving the news: At COP28, around 100 countries pledged to triple renewable energy use by 2030 
• However, China, the world's largest emitter, has not joined this commitment, likely due to the fact that it commits signatories to ending investment in new coal-fired power plants
• It is also alleged that China did not sign due to the country’s historical reluctance to sign any declarations, initiatives and statements at COP28

🔭 The context: China's rapid economic growth has been accompanied by a significant increase in greenhouse gas emissions
• Despite being a global leader in renewable energy, especially in solar and wind, China still heavily relies on coal
Its reluctance to join the renewables pledge raises questions about its climate commitments

🌍 Why it matters for the planet: China's participation or absence in global climate pledges like tripling renewable energy is crucial due to its significant impact on global emissions
• The country's actions have a substantial influence on global efforts to combat climate change and transition to renewable energy

⏭️ What's next: The focus will be on how China balances its economic growth with environmental responsibilities
• The international community anticipates China's future climate strategies and how they align with global efforts to curb emissions and foster renewable energy adoption

💬 One quote: ”It is disappointing that China has not yet shown climate leadership [by signing on to the global pledge],” (Camilla Fenning, programme lead at think tank E3G)


Click for more news covering the latest on energy

Did you enjoy this illuminem voice? Support us by sharing this article!
author photo

About the author

illuminem's editorial team - providing you with concise summaries of the most important sustainability news of the day.

Follow us on Linkedin, Twitter​ & Instagram

Other illuminem Voices


Related Posts


You cannot miss it!

Weekly. Free. Your Top 10 Sustainability & Energy Posts.

You can unsubscribe at any time (read our privacy policy)