China is on the brink of a climate breakthrough. If it continues its current pace of clean energy development, the world’s largest greenhouse gas emitter could reduce emissions by 30% by 2035. With the right 2035 climate targets, China has the power to steer global climate efforts back on track and secure its place as a true environmental leader.
China’s Climate Turning Point
Amid growing global climate uncertainty, China has a chance to reaffirm its leadership by setting bold science backed climate goals. Experts say a 30% reduction in carbon emissions by 2035, compared to 2023 levels, is within reach if policies align with current clean energy momentum.
Power Sector from Coal to Clean
The fastest gains can come from electricity. By maintaining its current pace, China could cut 30% of power sector emissions and increase non-fossil energy use to over 40% by 2035. Achieving this would require 5,000 GW of renewable energy capacity and a halt to new approvals of coal plants.
Industry Reform Steel and Cement in Focus as Industrial emissions must fall by 25%, led by a 45% cut in steel emissions and a 20% cut in cement. This shift depends on expanding electric arc furnace (EAF) steelmaking and applying the national emissions trading system across sectors with a cap and reduce model.
China’s Transport and Buildings: Greener Lifestyles Ahead
To hit targets EV sales must reach 60% and rail freight rise to 25%. Buildings need a 40% emission cut, with all new constructions meeting green standards and 25% of existing buildings retrofitted. Renewable heating, especially heat pumps must hit 40% adoption.
Forests for the Future China must also increase forest cover by 15% by 2035 through afforestation and reforestation securing nature’s place in carbon removal.
The Verdict
If these targets are set in China’s next climate pledge, the nation won’t just cut emissions it will reshape the global climate future.