China missed its 2024 climate target, achieving only a 3.4% reduction in carbon intensity against a goal of 3.9%. Despite record renewable energy growth, emissions rose slightly, complicating progress toward long-term commitments under the Paris Agreement. Industrial demand continues to conflict with climate targets, posing significant challenges for future compliance and energy infrastructure reforms.
China has failed to meet a crucial climate target for 2024, as reported by the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS). While the country managed a 3.4 percent drop in carbon intensity from the previous year, it fell short of the official goal of 3.9 percent. Analysts indicate this shortfall indicates that China is behind on its target of an 18% reduction in carbon intensity from 2020 to 2025.
Despite record growth in renewable energy, carbon emissions in China slightly increased compared to last year, raising questions about whether the country has peaked its emissions ahead of its 2030 target. Experts believe this presents a significant challenge for China to adhere to its commitment to reduce carbon intensity by 65% from 2005 levels by 2030. Lauri Myllyvirta, lead analyst at the Centre for Research on Energy and Clean Air, stated, “This is a key test of China’s commitment to its pledges under the agreement.”
Currently, the demand driven by China’s industrial growth is complicating its progress towards achieving climate goals. Muyi Yang, senior energy analyst at think tank Ember, noted that rapid industrial expansion is resulting in energy needs that surpass the advancement of clean energy infrastructure. He emphasized that reforms in market flexibility and clean energy build-out are imperative to prevent energy demand from undermining sustainable development.
Total energy consumption rose by 4.3% compared to 2023, with coal remaining a primary energy source, comprising over half of the country’s energy mix. While renewables saw substantial growth last year, Yang mentioned that China is nearing a tipping point where future electricity demand could be met entirely by renewable sources. Once this threshold is crossed, coal usage could start a gradual decline.
Later this year, Beijing is expected to unveil its 15th Five-Year Plan (2026-2030), which aims to revise its emissions and energy objectives. China also anticipated submitting updated Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs) under the Paris Agreement in February, which outlines goals extending through 2035. However, China, like many nations, missed this deadline, although UN officials expect the submission of NDCs this year.
China missed its 2024 climate targets, with carbon intensity reductions falling short of goals amid increasing emissions. Industrial demand and coal reliance hinder progress toward achieving long-term climate objectives. Experts warn that without significant reforms, China may struggle to meet its Paris Agreement commitments. Upcoming plans and new emissions targets may reshape its approach to renewable energy and carbon reduction as it aims to peak emissions by 2030 and reach net zero by 2060.
Original Source: www.france24.com
