Climate envoy John Kerry's arrival in Beijing coincides with scorching temperatures in both China and the United States, underscoring the pressing need for renewed cooperation on climate change, CNN reports.
As Beijing experiences record-breaking heat, with temperatures surpassing 40°C (104°F) on multiple days, the urgency of addressing the climate crisis becomes palpable. Similarly, the US Southwest is grappling with an extreme heatwave, with temperatures soaring as high as 48.8°C (120°F). These soaring temperatures are not isolated events but part of a global trend, as the hottest day ever recorded on Earth was recently registered for four consecutive days.
China and the US, as the world's largest polluters, are responsible for nearly 40% of global emissions. Their collaboration is crucial in mitigating the worst impacts of climate change. Despite the geopolitical tensions between the two nations, the shared experience of the climate crisis compels them to find common ground and work together. Li Shuo, senior global policy adviser at Greenpeace China, suggests that the climate crisis has become a living reality that transcends political differences, demanding immediate action.
The suspension of climate talks last year due to political tensions dealt a setback to international climate cooperation. However, the unrelenting heat waves in both countries serve as a reminder that urgent action cannot wait for diplomatic relations to be resolved. The optics of Kerry's visit are significant, as he becomes the third US cabinet member to travel to China in recent weeks, signaling the Biden administration's commitment to re-establishing communication and stability in the bilateral relationship.
While major announcements are not anticipated during Kerry's trip, his discussions with Chinese officials are expected to focus on areas of collaboration and the challenges that lie ahead. One key area of concern is China's transition away from coal, which remains a major source of emissions. Achieving President Xi Jinping's commitment to peak carbon emissions by 2030 and carbon neutrality by 2060 requires a significant reduction in coal power, which currently accounts for approximately 60% of China's electricity generation.
The visit presents an opportunity to resume joint working groups on climate cooperation and to reaffirm commitments ahead of the 28th Conference of the Parties (COP28) in Dubai later this year. Both nations face domestic pressures in balancing climate action with their respective political landscapes. Kerry's discussions may touch upon pressing issues such as cutting emissions and phasing out coal, while Beijing may raise concerns over tariffs on Chinese solar panels.
Despite the challenges, engaging in dialogue and seeking cooperation on climate change is essential. Kerry emphasized that failing to engage with China on climate would be a diplomatic and political mistake, given China's status as the world's second-largest economy and emitter. The urgency of the climate crisis necessitates ongoing communication and collaboration between these global powers, recognizing the shared responsibility to tackle one of the most pressing challenges of our time.
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