China recorded a year-on-year decline in carbon emissions during the first quarter of 2025, marking a notable step toward its climate targets, even as national electricity demand rose by 2.5%.
According to recent data, carbon emissions fell by 1.6% compared to the same period in 2024. The reduction is primarily attributed to a surge in renewable energy output—particularly from wind, solar, and nuclear power sources—which helped offset increased energy consumption.
This progress reflects China’s ongoing efforts to decarbonize its energy sector as part of its broader environmental commitments. The country aims to peak carbon emissions by 2030 and achieve carbon neutrality by 2060. To meet these goals, Beijing has ramped up investment in renewable infrastructure and clean energy technologies.
Despite this progress, China remains the world’s largest emitter of greenhouse gases and continues to rely heavily on coal. Analysts caution that while short-term reductions are encouraging, the country still faces challenges in meeting its carbon intensity targets and transitioning fully to a low-carbon economy.
