China Study Could Mark Change in Climate Negotiations

A study by some of China’s top policy advisors could mark a turning point in the nation’s stance on international climate change negotiations.

The 900-page report, acquired by Reuters, reportedly calls for "quantified targets" to greenhouse gas emissions and a peak of total emissions by 2030.

Participants in the study stressed that it was a research exercise and not a policy blueprint; however, it is significant in that it marks the first time a high-level government document discusses setting emissions targets and dates. Until this point, China’s public stance has been that, as a developing nation, it will not consider any such firm commitments.

Furthermore, the report for the first time acknowledges that China has surpassed the United States as the world’s largest emitter of greenhouse gases and states that climate change is a "matter of great urgency" to the country.

If adopted as a roadmap, the report could prove to be an important negotiating tool for China, allowing it to reassure industrialized nations that it will follow their lead in making greenhouse gas cuts.

Read the full Reuters report at the link below.