China and US Climate Cooperation: Overcoming Challenges for a Brighter Future

Global climate governance is facing major challenges as the impacts of global warming continue to worsen. Both China and the United States are experiencing the effects of climate change, and it is crucial for these two major powers to work together to address these challenges.

In recent years, global warming has surpassed the critical threshold of 1.5 degrees Celsius, leading to more frequent and severe extreme weather events such as heatwaves, droughts, floods, and wildfires. These events not only result in significant economic losses and social burdens but also pose a threat to biodiversity and human life.

China and the US have played significant roles in addressing the climate crisis, particularly through their collaboration on the Paris Agreement in 2015. The two countries have continued to work together on climate action, as evidenced by the Joint Glasgow Declaration on Enhancing Climate Action in the 2020s issued in 2021.

However, climate cooperation between China and the US has faced challenges over the years, with periods of stagnation and revival depending on the political climate in each country. Despite these challenges, both nations have made efforts to deepen their climate cooperation, recognizing the importance of working together to combat climate change.

One key aspect of Sino-US climate diplomacy is the establishment of a cooperation framework at the senior level of government. The leaders of both countries have signed agreements and made statements that have had a significant impact on bilateral climate cooperation.

Maintaining communication channels and adhering to climate dialogue have also been crucial in advancing Sino-US climate diplomacy. Chinese special envoy for climate change Liu Zhenmin’s recent visit to the US is a positive development that could help settle differences and deepen cooperation on climate action.

It is important for the US to acknowledge China’s efforts in fighting climate change, particularly in the manufacturing of electric vehicles, rechargeable batteries, and solar panels. China’s advancements in these areas have contributed to the global low-carbon transformation of the transportation sector.

Overall, while climate cooperation between China and the US has faced challenges, it is essential for both countries to coordinate their climate policies to accelerate global climate action and improve global climate governance. By working together, China and the US can make significant progress in addressing the climate crisis and creating a more sustainable future for all.