Sam Engutsamy, February 4 2010
China appears to have ‘stepped up a gear’ in making developments to commit itself down a more environmentally friendly route. Previously postings have highlighted how China has successfully reduced sulphur dioxide emissions for four consecutive years, have pushed for greater use of public transport, and have promoted the use of clean energy vehicles. These reforms are founded upon the
2005 Renewable Energy Law
, and its 2009 amended version.
Post Copenhagen, China has submitted proposals, prior to the Accords January 31 2010 deadline, outlining the country’s commitment to a greener future. China’s plan was as follow: (i) lower carbon dioxide emissions by 40%-45% by 2020, from 2005 levels; (ii) increase share of non-fossil fuel to around 15% by 2020; and (iii) increase forest coverage by 40 million hectares, and forest stock volumes by 1.3 million cubic meters by 2020, from 2005 levels. The non binding Copenhagen’s Accord, was reached between the United States, China, India, South Africa, and Brazil during the 2009 United Nations Climate Change Conference. Japan, the European Union, and Australia have since aligned themselves with the accord, and have submitted their commitments also.
As the 11th Five-Year Plan (2006 – 2010) is due to expire, plans and details pertaining to China’s subsequent five year plans are crucial for the future. To date, China has taken massive strides in making commitments to minimise some negative effects arising from their growing economy. One such example,
recently reported
China having installed more new wind turbines than either Europe or the United States during 2009. China’s energy progress is not merely limited to wind power. Announced in 2009, plans are in motion for the building of several solar power plants in Ordos City, Inner Mongolia. China’s is making sure all surfaces are fully covered in order to become a world leader in renewable energy.
In a move that will both promote the use of solar energy, and the country’s commitment to the cause, it was announced on February 3, 2010, that China’s Yingli Green Energy Holding Company Ltd, shall be the global sponsor of FIFA’s 2010 World Cup. We also should not forget the Three Gorges Dam project; China’s biggest electricity generating project. Additionally, the creation of the National Energy Commission led by Premier Wen Jiabao, highlights the allegiance China has adopted in terms of green energy. Such a move can only be beneficial for China.
As the world’s largest producer of greenhouse gases, I am glad to see China making such proactive steps in committing itself to the future. If China continues making such progress on climate change, it could soon emerge to be the world leader within the field, and a shining example for other countries to follow. Well done China.
For further reading,
Forbes.com
provides an interesting glance of the world’s biggest green energy projects.