#Paris #France #Climate Challenge #Hainan Baoting #China-EU Cooperation

Climate Challenge Event in Paris Marks Major Milestones

On June 26, 2025, Paris became a focal point for environmental collaboration as it hosted the Climate Challenge (Hainan Baoting) Europe Outreach Event. This significant occasion celebrated two historic anniversaries: the 50th anniversary of diplomatic relations between China and the European Union, and the 10th anniversary of the Paris Agreement. The event was orchestrated by the Baoting Li Autonomous County and Miao Autonomous County of Hainan Province in China, along with the Ningyuan Institute of Climate and Sustainable Development, in partnership with leaders from China's and Europe's climate sectors and the Chinese Embassy in France.

During the event, over 100 representatives from more than 80 institutions across China and Europe convened to discuss climate action and cooperation in pursuit of a greener, low-carbon future. Six cooperation agreements were signed, targeting key projects that energize environmental innovation and bolster China-Europe collaboration.

Fostering Climate Resilience

The Baoting-China-EU Eco-innovation Zone is positioned as a testing ground for climate-resilient sustainable development models, particularly vital for coastal and insular regions. It serves as a demonstration site for the actions outlined in the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change regarding climate and health.

The Climate Challenge Event aimed to spotlight innovative climate solutions addressing developmental challenges in four critical areas: proactive health, sustainable architecture, lifestyles aligned with a 1.5°C goal, and sustainable agriculture and food. Notably, Xie Zhenhua, China’s first Special Envoy for Climate Change, delivered a video address emphasizing the urgent need for enhancing climate action efficiency and effectiveness.

He underscored the importance of synergies in climate action, healthcare, and marine conservation, stressing national planning, local actions, and international collaboration as fundamental to success. Furthermore, he highlighted the crucial role of enterprises and public participation in developing the Baoting Innovation Zone, particularly in standard recognition, sustainable finance, and promoting innovative climate and health standards.

Laurence Tubiana, CEO of the European Climate Foundation and former French Climate Change Ambassador, also presented a video speech emphasizing the value of the Baoting Innovation Zone as a model for international cooperation, commending Baoting for its ambitious goal of achieving carbon neutrality by 2040. She expressed hope that this example would inspire others in realizing their climate ambitions.

Strengthening Collaboration

At the event, Guo Xiaolin, Minister-Counselor for Science and Technology at the Chinese Embassy in France, reiterated the significance of the Climate Challenge, highlighting its foundation in the Baoting Innovation Zone, which links the European innovation ecosystem. The initiative focuses on critical areas such as green energy, smart agriculture, eco-tourism, and low-carbon technologies, aiming to develop scalable and replicable models for green development.

European representatives from government agencies, industry associations, and enterprises exchanged insights and experiences to support the development of the Innovation Zone. Clémence Xu, regional councilor for international relations in Hauts-de-France, discussed the achievements and perspectives of China-France cooperation. Olivier Dessajan, co-chair of the French Health Society, shared practices for enhancing the quality of life among the elderly. Daniel Klier, CEO of South Pole Group, spoke about sustainable finance and building a strong future, while Yves-Jean Bignon from Vichy shared experiences promoting a wellness economy centered on thermal springs.

These discussions provided invaluable insights for the development of the Baoting Innovation Zone.

New Beginnings for Eco-initiatives

Chinese and European institutions signed crucial climate and sustainable development cooperation agreements, laying a solid foundation for environmental collaboration and low-emission solutions. The first cohort of shortlisted projects from the Climate Challenge was showcased during the event, including innovative initiatives such as:

• - A low-emission therapeutic center for health and well-being;
• - Sustainable material innovations;
• - Integrated energy innovations from Nordic engineering for global application;
• - Projects aimed at enhancing longevity and health.

These initiatives spanned various key areas of ecological and low-emission development, demonstrating innovative approaches and practical outcomes in addressing climate challenges through China-Europe collaboration. The positive reception of these projects marked a significant step forward.

The success of the Climate Challenge (Hainan Baoting) Europe Outreach Event signifies a pivotal milestone in China-Europe cooperation focused on eco-friendly, low-emission solutions. More institutions and projects are encouraged to engage in this initiative, uniting knowledge and resources to bolster global climate resilience and sustainable development towards a greener, low-emission, and sustainable future.