A recent study published in Engineering has investigated China’s strategies for achieving carbon neutrality by 2060 in line with the 2°C target of the Paris Agreement. The research team, led by Chinese scientists, assessed China’s carbon peak and carbon-neutrality pathways, and explored their potential impacts on future climate change. The study suggests that pursuing the 1.5°C target may be less feasible for China, as it could cost 3-4 times more than seeking the 2°C target. Instead, China can achieve carbon neutrality by 2060 without relying on extensive negative-emission technologies at an early stage, by focusing on renewable energy development and transforming its energy system. The study highlights the importance of emission reduction, as natural ecosystem carbon sinks have limited capacity and may decline in effectiveness due to future climate warming. The research also discusses the concept of climate overshoot and the role of negative-emission technologies, suggesting that China should accelerate the application of renewable energy and adjust its industrial structure. The study’s findings provide valuable insights into China’s climate change mitigation strategies and their global implications.
Mitigating Climate Change: Moving Towards a 2°C Goal, as Pursued by the Paris Agreement
