China and the U.S. have made a commitment to address climate change, with a focus on reducing methane and other greenhouse gases. This announcement comes ahead of a major U.N. meeting on the issue and on the eve of a summit between Presidents Joe Biden and Xi Jinping.
Cooperation between the two biggest emitters of greenhouse gases is crucial to the success of the upcoming U.N. climate talks. Earlier this year, it was unclear whether the two countries would work together given their deteriorating relationship. However, they have pledged to rise to the challenges of our time.
The joint statement also includes plans to triple global renewable energy capacity by 2030, to create a working group on climate action, as well as to restart talks on energy policies.
Methane, a greenhouse gas, has been given a significant focus in the agreement. China is the world’s largest emitter of methane, and the U.S. and China have also announced plans to host a meeting focused on methane and other greenhouse gases.
Furthermore, China issued an action plan to control methane emissions, including the development of an accounting and reporting system for emissions from coal mines, oil and gas fields, farms, landfills, and sewage treatment plants.
This collaboration between China and the U.S. signifies a positive step towards addressing climate change and reducing emissions that contribute to global warming.
