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Baoting's Commitment to Climate Action Ahead of COP30

As the world gears up for the 30th Conference of the Parties (COP30), Baoting Li and Miao autonomous county in Hainan province is stepping forward as a pioneering model for local climate action. This lush region boasts a remarkable 77.02% forest coverage and excels with 98.90% of days rated as good or excellent environmental quality during the first three quarters of 2025. Recognized as a significant green sanctuary on Hainan Island, Baoting is not only characterized by its breathtaking mountains and crystal-clear waters but also by its proactive approach to environmental sustainability.

During a recent conference focused on Hainan's role in the climate process, which gathered more than 100 stakeholders—including representatives from international organizations, governments, and the private sector—participants emphasized the urgency of translating climate pledges into actionable results. The conference showcased Baoting’s advanced initiatives anchored in the Hainan Free Trade Port, the integration of green and digital innovation backed by the UN Development Programme, and health-related projects led by the World Health Organization that underscore the health benefits associated with climate action.

Significantly, this autonomous county has committed to reducing its carbon emissions. Renowned climate leader, Xie Zhenhua, articulated that Baoting's collaboration with European partners will propel its own sustainable development goals while also facilitating Hainan's ambitions of evolving into a free trade port and a low-carbon island. He noted that Baoting provides a valuable template for addressing global zero-carbon development challenges.

Laurence Tubiana, CEO of the European Climate Foundation and COP30’s special envoy for Europe, highlighted that achieving the objectives outlined in the Paris Agreement necessitates localized initiatives. She identified Baoting as an inspiring case study due to its collaborative partnership models, suggesting that Hainan's experiences could guide other island economies in their sustainability efforts.

At the forefront of Baoting's innovative strategies is urban climate resilience development, particularly in coastal and island regions. Baoting's Party Secretary, Mu Kerui, announced the launch of the China-EU (Baoting) Green and Digital Innovation Zone in December. This zone is envisioned as a testing ground for cooperative projects encompassing green technology, digital carbon management solutions, and research in climate-health science.

Prominent experts, such as Qiao Jie from the Chinese Academy of Engineering, have proposed harnessing AI to tackle climate change while promoting reproductive health. She advocates for the establishment of a cooperation zone in Baoting that could become a new model for managing health throughout life cycles, especially in light of global climate uncertainties.

Moreover, Yuan Feng from Tongji University introduced the vision of implementing smart building technology to enhance Baoting's status as a global exemplar in climate therapy and health management.

Jonas Tornblom, founding chair of the Sweden-China Green-Tech Alliance, announced that his organization will support Baoting in critical areas like mutual recognition of carbon standards, green finance, and the expanding blue economy, further propelling low-carbon development efforts.

As COP30 approaches in November, Baoting exemplifies China's commitment to translating national climate pledges into feasible local action plans. Through an ambitious strategy that integrates artificial intelligence, objectives for zero carbon emissions, and proactive health initiatives, Baoting symbolizes a pioneering county-level implementation of climate-responsive actions, thus offering a replicable model for cities and nations across the Global South. This journey positions Baoting not only as a crucial player in the national narrative but also as a beacon of hope in the global climate dialogue.