In the contemporary discourse surrounding the drastic climatic changes, China has been frequently labelled as one of the primary culprits of the climate deterioration.  This type of characterization often overlooks constructive aspects of China’s climate politics, its technological and leadership role in the practical transition to renewable energy. Indeed, China’s large-scale industrialization and increasing energy consumption have contributed to global emissions, making it the largest emitter of carbon dioxide in the world, accounting for about 30%. However, at the same time, it is indispensable to acknowledge China’s efforts to fight climate change.

China’s per capita emissions remain lower than the United States despite its large industrial footprint.

Without mentioning China’s role as a is the manufacturing hub of the world, it is impossible to discuss China’s share in emissions. Currently, China accounts for about 30% of the total production of goods in the world, most of which are consumed by countries with lower emission rates. Hence, it is crucial to understand that a considerable part of China’s emissions is associated with the production of goods for export, which ultimately contributes to the importing state’s economic and social survival.

Comparatively, per capita carbon emissions by China are still lower than those of the Global North. According to available data, as of 2023, China’s per capita emissions were approximately 8.89 metric tons, compared to 14.21  metric tons in the United States and 5.66 metric tons in the European Union. This statistic brings to light the overall economic perspective that developed countries, although they emit less today, have been emitting more per capita in the past.

Recently, China has been showing an unprecedented effort to combat climate change. In September 2020, President Xi Jinping pledged that China to peak carbon emissions before 2030 and would achieve carbon neutrality by 2060. This goal indeed resonates with China’s perception of the need for a “transition to a green economy” and its vision to be the world leader in climate change mitigation. This long-term vision is being supported by enormous long-term commitments to renewable power, green technologies, and sustainable structures.

President Xi Jinping pledged carbon neutrality by 2060, signaling China’s long-term green vision.

China alone had over 64% of the total renewable energy capacity of the world by the end of 2024, and the cumulative installed capacity of renewable energy is about 1.89 billion KW.  It has committed more than $380 billion to renewable power, which is more than the total of the United States and the European Union. China’s solar energy production capacity alone is more than twice that of the next largest producer, making it home to the world’s largest solar panel manufacturing industry. Quintessence of the Chinese push is in the area of electric vehicles (EVs). In 2024, it sold over 11 million, which is about 50% of total electric vehicle sales globally. This leadership in the electronic vehicle (EV) market not only helps China to decrease its dependency on fossil energy but also an inspiration for other countries.

China has also played a significant part in the international climate treaties and has been an engaged participant in the climate change negotiations since it is a party to the Paris Agreement and calling for the equitable distribution of burdens between the developed and the developing world from time to time. The principle of “common but differentiated responsibilities” has been one of the key tenets of China’s position. It pointed out that all countries need to do something about climate change, and the developed countries need to do more because of their historical emissions.

Concurrently, China is in close collaboration with developing nations and assisting them to transition to green energy, and offers them funding as well as technology for renewable energy in Africa and Asia. It is also heavily investing in carbon capture and storage (CCS) technologies that can cut emissions from coal plants considerably. China’s Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) is in the expansion phase, and green infrastructure projects are a key part of it.  China is investing in renewable energy and sustainable development abroad and aims to position itself as a responsible global leader. In the first quarter of 2025, its emissions decreased by 1.6% year-on-year.

China holds over 64% of global renewable energy capacity and leads the world in electric vehicle sales.

Long story short, to portray China as a culprit and a sole contributor to the global climate crisis is a simplistic and narrow view of a complex issue. Even though China’s emissions are high, the country has demonstrated remarkable leadership in green energy, international cooperation, and climate policies. These are not only pushing forward its climate change agenda but are also supporting the global initiatives to mitigate the effects of climate change. Over the next few decades, as the global community is forced to face the realities of climate change, the Chinese story will remarkably persist as a revolutionary. It is indeed evident that China is not merely a contributor but also provides solutions that will define the future of the climate movement.

Disclaimer: The opinions expressed in this article are solely those of the author. They do not represent the views, beliefs, or policies of the Stratheia.