Story perspectives

EU Critiques China's 2035 Climate Goals as Insufficient

9/28/2025

Summary

Story summary

European Commissioner Wopke Hoekstra called China's 2035 pledges "inadequate" amid perceived double standards.
China aims to peak emissions before 2030 and reach carbon neutrality by 2060, investing in renewables.
President Xi Jinping set a 7-10% emissions cut by 2035 and non-fossil energy above 30% of consumption.
Critics say targets fall short of 1.5°C, while experts urge developed nations to support developing countries.

History

Historical Context

The Kyoto Protocol, established in 1997, mandated industrialized nations to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, with the EU targeting a 20% reduction by 2020. China, classified as a developing nation, was not bound by these targets. Today, China's 2035 emissions goals face criticism for their perceived inadequacy, highlighting ongoing tensions between developed and developing nations over climate responsibilities and the urgent need for collaborative efforts to combat climate change.

1 of 2

Story summary

European Commissioner Wopke Hoekstra called China's 2035 pledges "inadequate" amid perceived double standards.
China aims to peak emissions before 2030 and reach carbon neutrality by 2060, investing in renewables.
President Xi Jinping set a 7-10% emissions cut by 2035 and non-fossil energy above 30% of consumption.
Critics say targets fall short of 1.5°C, while experts urge developed nations to support developing countries.

1 / 2