To receive the free Chaleur Humaine newsletter every Tuesday, click here.
In 2005, China became the world’s largest emitter of greenhouse gases, and therefore plays a leading role in global warming. But it has also made a commitment to achieve climate neutrality by 2060. Beijing finds itself in a paradoxical situation: the country is the one that simultaneously installs the most renewable energies and coal-fired power plants. Its trajectory is therefore crucial for the success of global climate objectives.
Can the commitments announced by the regime be taken seriously? Is China becoming a climate leader, as some diplomats claim? Or, conversely, does it pose a danger to the achievement of our climate objectives?
Stephanie Monjon is a professor and researcher in economics at Paris Dauphine University, specializing in climate policies. In particular, she coordinated the journal number Green on Chinese environmental policy and co-wrote with Sandra Poncet The ecological transition in China, mirage or “green shift” (Editions Ulm, 2018).
An episode produced by Adèle Ponticelli with the help of Esther Michon, directed by Amandine Robillard. Original music: Amandine Robillard.
“Human Warmth” is a weekly podcast of reflection and debate on ways to face the climate challenge. Listen to a new episode for free every Tuesday, on lemonde.fr, Apple Podcast, Acast Or Spotify. Find all the episodes here.
You can write to me to share your opinions, ideas, and your criticisms at the following address.