The 62nd plenary session of the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) has commenced in Hangzhou, China, bringing together representatives from over 130 countries. This pivotal event focuses on the draft outlines of the IPCC’s Seventh Assessment Report and the Methodology Report on Carbon Dioxide Removal Technologies.
Key Takeaways
- First Time in China: This is the first time China has hosted an IPCC plenary session.
- Global Participation: Over 130 countries and various international organizations are participating.
- Focus on Climate Action: The session emphasizes the importance of science-based policies and contributions from countries like China in combating climate change.
- Renewable Energy Growth: China has made significant strides in renewable energy, with solar and wind power capacities showing remarkable growth.
Importance of the Session
The opening session highlighted the critical role of the IPCC in shaping global climate policies. Chen Zhenlin, head of the China Meteorological Administration, emphasized China’s commitment to balancing high-quality development with environmental sustainability. He noted that China has made substantial progress in harnessing renewable energy resources, including wind, solar, and hydro energy.
China’s Commitment to Climate Goals
China’s special envoy for climate change, Liu Zhenmin, reiterated the country’s dedication to achieving carbon peak before 2030 and carbon neutrality by 2060. He praised the IPCC for its ongoing efforts to deepen the scientific assessment of climate change, which serves as a vital foundation for global climate governance.
Renewable Energy Statistics
Recent statistics from China’s National Energy Administration reveal impressive growth in renewable energy:
- Solar Power Capacity: 890 million kilowatts (45% year-on-year growth)
- Wind Power Capacity: 520 million kilowatts (18% year-on-year growth)
The Role of the IPCC
Established in 1988, the IPCC provides scientific information to governments for formulating climate policies. IPCC Chair Jim Skea emphasized the urgency of the session, especially in light of the WMO’s confirmation that 2024 was the warmest year on record. He stated that the IPCC’s assessments have never been more relevant, as extreme weather events become increasingly common.
Global Collaboration in Climate Science
China has been a significant contributor to the IPCC’s work, with over 100 Chinese authors involved in drafting reports and more than 1,000 experts participating in the review process. Ko Barrett, deputy secretary-general of the WMO, acknowledged China’s leadership in international scientific cooperation and its contributions to climate science.
As the plenary session unfolds, the focus remains on collaborative efforts to address climate change and implement effective strategies for a sustainable future. The outcomes of this session will play a crucial role in shaping global climate policies and actions moving forward.
