#China #Beijing #Climate Change #Green Transition

Global Experts Call for Cooperation in Clean Energy Transition

On September 29, 2026, during a significant event in Beijing, notable climate and environmental specialists highlighted the urgent need for collaboration among nations to tackle escalating environmental issues. The gathering praised China's proactive steps toward sustainable development and its commitment to facilitating a green transition worldwide.

Huang Runqiu, who serves as the executive vice-chairperson of the China Council for International Cooperation on Environment and Development (CCICED) and China's Minister of Ecology and Environment, addressed the attendees, stating, "The world is experiencing unprecedented transformational changes this century, marked by the interlinked crises of climate change, loss of biodiversity, and environmental pollution. These challenges threaten the sustainable development of humanity."

Huang emphasized that there is a rising global desire for swift advancement in green practices. He pointed out that China is taking substantial actions to reduce emissions and promote a sustainable economy, which includes constructing the most extensive systems for clean energy and steel production globally. He reported significant retrofits on coal power capacity aimed at minimizing emissions and the operation of 101 nuclear plants.

The meeting was part of a three-day annual gathering themed "Pragmatic and Innovative Cooperation, Advancing Together for Green Development." The aim is to create innovative policies through extensive dialogue and collaborative research. Julie Dabrusin, the international executive vice-chairperson of the CCICED and Minister of Environment and Climate Change in Canada, reaffirmed her country's dedication to the council, viewing it as a foundation for bilateral endeavors between China and Canada concerning environmental challenges.

"Tackling climate change is not only an ethical obligation but also a strategic necessity in a carbon-dominated world," Dabrusin remarked, commending Canada's advancements in clean electricity, methane reduction, and nature conservation. She added that the CCICED's proposals have significantly influenced China’s green initiatives and align with Canada's initiatives in addressing climate issues.

Xie Zhenhua, who once served as China's special climate envoy, urged transparent, inclusive cooperation, stressing the necessity for the world to focus on implementing nationwide commitments to reduce emissions. He cautioned against unilateral actions that might jeopardize global unity, expressing hope that the council can continue bridging gaps between China and other nations as strategic guidance is needed to navigate the complex geopolitical dynamics impacting environmental dialogues.

Achim Steiner, a former administrator of the United Nations Development Programme, acknowledged that China has altered traditional perceptions of development and environment, praising the new Ecological and Environmental Code which came into effect on August 15, 2026. He characterized China’s 15th Five-Year Plan (2026-30) as a balanced strategy incorporating environmental and developmental frameworks. Steiner expressed that the council can serve as a crucial platform for creating innovative paths in systematic thinking and enhancing multilateral cooperation in tackling global challenges.

Kristin Halvorsen, previously the head of Norway’s CICERO Center for International Climate Research, remarked on China’s successful transition to a sustainable economy, stating it serves as both a vital industrial strategy and an essential response to environmental imperatives. She noted that China’s 15th Five-Year Plan is translating climate promises into actionable initiatives across government sectors, providing inspirational examples for global adoption.

Halvorsen underscored the necessity for China to act as a leader not just in technology provision but as a pivotal player in fostering cohesive international collaboration amidst today's fragmented geopolitical environment. The significance of climate and environmental cooperation is paramount, transcending being merely a luxury.

The discussions at the CCICED annual meeting have invited a hopeful outlook on achieving an aligned global effort toward a clean energy future, addressing the pressing call for united actions in the face of escalating environmental challenges.