The State Council Information Office (SCIO) held a press conference on the recently concluded Paris climate change conference on Dec. 23.
The State Council Information Office (SCIO) held a press conference on the recently concluded Paris climate change conference on Dec. 23. Xie Zhenhua, the Special Representative on China’s Climate Change, answered questions from the press. The following are some of the highlights.
President Xi provides key impetus to negotiation process
Xie Zhenhua quoted UN Secretary General Ban Ki-moon as saying Chinese President Xi Jinping’s speech at the Paris climate summit had provided key impetus to the negotiation process. Prior to the meeting in Paris, President Xi issued climate-related joint statements with his counterparts of the United States and France, making historic contributions to tackling climate change.
Legally binding deal
A thorough, balanced and legally binding deal was signed in Paris. The Chinese delegation, comprising more than 90 members, made a constructive contribution to the meeting.
A milestone in tackling climate change
The Paris agreement is a milestone in the global effort to tackle climate change, Xie Zhenhua said.
It adheres to the principle of “common but differentiated responsibilities” and allows countries to decide their own approach according to their national situations, capabilities, and development stage.
Benefits: 42% reduction in smog
Efforts in tackling climate change will help combat prevalent smog in China, according to Xie Zhenhua. Experts believe if China meets the climate change targets, smog-induced pollution will be reduced by 42 percent.
Measures to fulfill China’s INDCs
Xie Zhenhua enumerated several measures that China will take to fulfill its Intended Nationally Determined Contributions (INDCs). First, adjust the country’s energy structure, which is the key to saving energy and boosting efficiency. Second, lift energy efficiency in industry, construction, transportation and people’s lives. Third, increase forest carbon sinks and plant more trees.
