China aims to achieve carbon neutrality before 2060

context: Climate, again, emerges as an area where China seeks to score a diplomatic win, amidst recent mixed moves on energy transition. The hope is that targeting carbon neutrality before 2060, a bold announcement, could be a game changer for green development and geopolitics.


President Xi Jinping习近平 vows at the virtual UN General Assembly on 22 September, that China will strive to achieve carbon neutrality before 2060.

Xi adds that

  • China will scale up its INDCs (intended nationally determined contribution) by adopting more vigorous policies and measures
  • China aims to have CO2 emissions peak 'before' 2030 (CP Note: previously said to be 'around')
  • nations should unite to embrace scitech revolution and industrial transformation to drive a green global recovery

CP Note: see official English translation link