China, with the largest population in the world, is responsible for 28% of global emissions, making them one of the largest contributors to climate change. Yet, a recent announcement from President Xi Jinping shows great promise. When global climate negotiations were postponed until 2021 because of the Coronavirus pandemic, climate change was not at the forefront of many people’s minds. China’s president surprised the United Nations with the statement: “We aim to have CO₂ emissions peak before 2030 and achieve carbon neutrality before 2060.” If China becomes carbon neutral by 2060, many believe it will be a crucial step in the right direction towards slowing down the warming of our planet. However, the United States climate envoy Todd Stern says “[s]imply peaking emissions 'before 2030' won't be enough to put China on the rapid path needed for carbon neutrality, but overall this is a very encouraging step."
This statement on the part of the Chinese government suggests a major change in their attitude towards climate change. As opposed to ignoring the issue of global warming, China is at least now firmly acknowledging the problem. If they stick to their word, benefits will be widespread. Even looking at just one species that a reduction in carbon emissions would help, advantages are plentiful. Polar bears, opportunistic hunters, rely on icy regions to hunt for seals as the seals surface from holes in the ice. As our climate continues to be neglected, more and more of the ice these polar bears call home melts. As apex predators, polar bears provide a key role in the balance of their ecosystem. They also serve as essential parts of the economy, as their cute cubs bring in many tourists to colder regions. President Xi’s announcement, if it comes to fruition, would give great hope for the rebound of the polar bear population because the more we combat climate change, the better chance polar bears have to avoid extinction. This announcement from China is exceptional news for the climate and especially for the largest land predator on earth, but only if President Xi follows through.
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