China Climate Plans: Defying U.S. Climate Denial

Intermediate | October 6, 2025

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China Steps Forward with Concrete Targets in Its China Climate Plans

At the United Nations Climate Leaders’ Summit in late September 2025, China announced for the first time a clear plan to cut greenhouse gas emissions by 7% to 10% from their peak by 2035. (Reuters) In speeches, President Xi Jinping criticized U.S. climate denial and called on global leaders to unify around the green energy transition as part of ongoing China climate plans. (Reuters)

Scaling Up Renewables & Energy Shift

China also pledged to increase its wind and solar capacity sixfold compared to 2020 levels. (Reuters) This signals a major shift: expanding clean energy to replace reliance on coal and fossil fuels. Analysts note China already leads in installed solar capacity globally.

Reactions & Criticism

While some praised China’s move as a step forward, critics—including the European Union—argued that the target “falls well short” of the cuts needed to meet 1.5 °C goals. (Reuters) Others say that China’s announcement, though cautious, might reflect a strategy of “underpromise but overdeliver.” (Reuters commentary)

The U.S. Factor: Denial & Contrast

At the same time, U.S. President Donald Trump expressed skepticism about climate change, calling it a “con job” and dismissing renewable energy efforts. (Reuters) China used this moment to position itself as a counterweight in global climate leadership.

Why China’s Move Matters Globally

China is the world’s largest emitter of CO₂. Its climate decisions influence global emission trajectories. By committing to concrete targets and scaling renewables aggressively, China may shift power dynamics in climate diplomacy, especially as U.S. leadership declines.

Vocabulary

Emission (noun) – the release of gases (especially greenhouse gases) into the atmosphere.
Example: “China pledges emissions cut of 7–10% by 2035.”
Pledge (verb / noun) – a promise or formal commitment.
Example: “China pledged to increase solar and wind capacity.”
Denial (noun) – refusal to accept something true or real.
Example: “U.S. climate denial contrasts with China’s plan.”
Capacity (noun) – the maximum output possible.
Example: “Sixfold increase in wind and solar capacity.”
Criticize (verb) – to express disapproval of something.
Example: “EU officials criticize China’s target as too weak.”
Strategy (noun) – a planned approach to reach a goal.
Example: “China may use a strategy of underpromise and overdeliver.”
Diplomacy (noun) – managing international relations.
Example: “Climate diplomacy is affected by China’s announcements.”
Trajectory (noun) – the path or direction of change.
Example: “China’s emission trajectory influences global warming.”
Aggressive (adjective) – forceful or bold.
Example: “An aggressive push in renewables signals commitment.”
Counterweight (noun) – a force that balances or opposes another.
Example: “China can act as a counterweight to U.S. climate policy.”

Discussion Questions (About the Article)

What specific emissions target did China set for 2035?
How does China plan to expand its renewable energy capacity?
Why did some critics say China’s plan was not enough?
How did the U.S. response shape China’s announcement?
What global consequences might China’s leadership in climate bring?

Discussion Questions (Bigger Picture / Environment & Politics)

Should major polluting nations like China take stronger climate action earlier?
Can China’s plan help fill gaps left by U.S. withdrawal?
What role do international agreements play when leadership is inconsistent?
How might China balance economic growth with emissions reductions?
What pressures will China face from other nations and environmental groups?

Related Idiom

“Lead by example” – to act in a way that sets a standard for others.
China’s new climate targets aim to lead by example in global climate efforts.

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This article was inspired by Reuters.