BEIJING (Enmaeya News) — For the first time, China’s carbon dioxide (CO₂) emissions have begun to decline, signaling a potential shift in the trajectory of the world’s largest emitter. Analysts report that emissions dropped by 1.6% year-on-year in Q1 2025, and by 1% over the last 12 months, driven not by economic slowdown but by a historic surge in clean energy deployment
This drop is notable because it reflects structural changes in the energy sector rather than temporary downturns. According to New Scientist, China has expanded its wind, solar, and nuclear energy capacity at an unprecedented pace, allowing clean electricity generation to exceed the growth in power demand.
In 2024 alone, China added over 350 GW of solar and wind capacity, effectively reaching its 2030 renewable energy target six years early. As reported by Upstream, this investment has sharply reduced reliance on coal-fired power, contributing to the emissions decline.
Still, challenges remain. Experts warn that seasonal electricity surges and low hydropower yields during droughts could cause emissions to rebound. Furthermore, China's approval of new coal plants in 2023 and 2024 casts uncertainty over the permanence of current trends.
Beyond its domestic transition, China is positioning itself as a global leader in climate finance, providing infrastructure support and clean energy technologies to developing nations. This effort was highlighted in a recent analysis by Dialogue Earth, noting China's expanding influence in the international climate policy space.
Moreover, a report by Green Central Banking suggests that China’s green finance strategies and renewable investments are beginning to pay off, both environmentally and economically.
As the world closely watches this turning point, China’s path forward will play a critical role in global efforts to limit warming to 1.5°C. The country’s next steps, especially in balancing energy security, economic growth, and climate action will determine whether this emissions peak marks a true inflection point or a temporary pause.
