China missed its 2024 climate target as emissions rose slightly, primarily due to coal dominance despite record renewable energy growth. Carbon intensity fell by 3.4 percent, below the expected 3.9 percent, indicating challenges in meeting Paris Agreement commitments. Analysts stress the need for market reforms to balance industrial growth and sustainability, as coal remains a major energy source.
China has reportedly failed to meet a key climate target for 2024, according to official data. Emissions have slightly increased in the world’s second-largest economy, primarily due to the continued dominance of coal, despite significant additions to renewable energy resources. The figures indicate that China remains off-track in fulfilling its commitments under the Paris climate agreement, as noted by analysts.
According to the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS), China’s carbon intensity fell by only 3.4 percent in 2024, missing the official goal of 3.9 percent and lagging behind the target of an 18 percent reduction from 2020 to 2025. This data suggests that China is still not aligned with its objective of reducing carbon intensity by 65 percent from 2005 levels by 2030, requiring a significant drop in carbon intensity in the latter part of the decade.
Despite being the leading emitter of greenhouse gases, China is also known as a strong player in renewable energy. The nation aims to peak its carbon emissions by 2030 and achieve net-zero emissions by 2060. However, progress may be hindered by ongoing industrial growth, with some analysts speculating on a possible peak in emissions occurring prior to the 2030 target. Determining this peak will require further data and retrospective analysis.
The energy sector’s rapid growth, particularly within carbon-intensive industries, has created demand that exceeds the progress made in clean energy infrastructure. According to Muyi Yang, a senior energy analyst, reforms such as market flexibility and the expansion of clean energy installations are necessary to align industrial growth with sustainable energy objectives. The NBS report indicates a 4.3 percent increase in total energy consumption compared to 2023, with coal continuing to provide over half of the country’s energy supply.
As China edges closer to a point where all new electricity demand will be met by renewable energy sources, analysts predict that coal power generation will begin to decline in absolute terms. The Chinese government is expected to unveil its 15th Five-Year Plan, outlining emissions and energy goals, later this year. Additionally, China was also set to submit updated Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs) under the Paris Agreement, which was delayed but is anticipated to be addressed in the current year.
In summary, China has missed a key climate target for 2024, reflecting challenges in reducing emissions amid continued coal reliance. The slight increase in carbon intensity raises concerns about the nation’s capacity to meet its Paris Agreement commitments. While the growth of renewable energy offers hope, significant reforms are necessary to ensure sustainable development alongside industrial demands. The forthcoming Five-Year Plan and NDC updates will be pivotal in guiding China’s future climate strategies.
Original Source: www.france24.com
