Baoting Sets a Benchmark for Climate Action Ahead of COP30

As the world prepares for the pivotal COP30 climate conference, the Baoting Li and Miao Autonomous County in Hainan Province is emerging as a significant model for local climate action. Known for its extensive forest coverage and commitment to sustainable practices, Baoting is demonstrating what proactive environmental stewardship can look like at a community level.

A Green Heart in Hainan

Baoting is truly a green gem, boasting a remarkable 77.02% forest coverage and 98.90% of days rated as good or excellent for air quality in the first three quarters of 2025. This verdant county features lush landscapes with mountains and crystal-clear waters, positioning itself as a cornerstone for eco-tourism and sustainable development. The local government has been actively fostering the integration of forestry with tourism, wellness, and other industries, thereby creating a diverse green industry system.

A Platform for Global Collaboration

Recently, Baoting hosted a conference focusing on Hainan’s contributions to the COP process. Over 100 representatives from various international organizations, governments, research institutes, and enterprises gathered to discuss the implementation of climate commitments. The conference spotlighted Baoting's initiatives in relation to the Hainan Free Trade Port and several United Nations projects aimed at promoting green and digital innovation.

Notably, former Chinese climate envoy Xie Zhenhua articulated that Baoting’s practical collaborations with European partners could pave the way for sustainable development not just for the county itself, but also for Hainan's broader goal of transforming into a low-carbon island and a free trade port. This model offers insights and solutions that can be replicated by other regions seeking to meet their climate objectives.

Laurence Tubiana, CEO of the European Climate Foundation and special envoy for COP30, underscored the necessity of local actions to achieve the goals of the Paris Agreement. She cited Baoting as an inspiring example of multi-stakeholder collaboration, a potential template for other island economies.

Innovative Approaches to Climate Resilience

In his presentations, Mu Kerui, the party secretary of Baoting, unveiled innovative strategies aimed at enhancing urban climate resilience in coastal and island areas. The recently introduced China-EU Green and Digital Innovation Zone in Baoting serves as a testing ground for collaborations in green technology and carbon management.

Prominent figures in academia and industry, such as Qiao Jie from the Chinese Academy of Engineering and Yuan Feng from Tongji University, also contributed insights on leveraging artificial intelligence in battling climate change and improving public health. They suggested that Baoting could pioneer new health management frameworks that address the implications of global climate change.

A Model for Sustainable Development

As COP30 draws near, Baoting is translating national commitments into tangible local action plans. By merging AI initiatives, zero-carbon objectives, and health-focused strategies, Baoting exemplifies how localized climate action can be implemented effectively. Its progress not only aims to serve the residents of the county but also as a replicable model for other nations and cities aspiring for sustainable development.

In a world increasingly threatened by climate change, Baoting stands out as a beacon of hope and a harbinger of what can be achieved when local actions resonate with global climate imperatives. This model of local commitment could inspire other regions to follow suit, facilitating a collective movement toward a sustainable and resilient future.