China is playing a growing role in tackling climate change and may be looked to for greater leadership, says COP30 President-Designate Andre Aranha Correa do Lago.
As global climate challenges intensify, China’s role in driving solutions is becoming increasingly significant. Speaking at an online briefing hosted by the Oxford Climate Journalism Network, COP30 President-Designate Andre Aranha Correa do Lago said China has been a key player in the fight against climate change and could be looked to for further leadership.
China’s Climate Influence Amid U.S. Policy Shifts
With the United States stepping back from major climate commitments—following President Donald Trump’s withdrawal from the Paris Agreement and the rollback of international climate partnerships—there is growing attention on China’s role in shaping global environmental policies.
“We have to work harder with China because China has been able to give some fantastic answers to the fight against climate change,” Correa do Lago stated, recognising the country’s long-standing contributions to climate solutions.
Solar Power and Renewable Energy Expansion
One of China’s most impactful contributions has been its aggressive expansion of solar energy production. As the world’s largest solar panel manufacturer, China has leveraged years of subsidies to boost production capacity, effectively driving down global prices for renewable energy technologies.
“They are doing their own thing, and their own thing is benefiting the rest of the world. Reducing the prices of solar panels is one of the most fantastic policies to expand renewable energy in developing countries,” Correa do Lago said.
China’s renewable energy strategy aligns with broader global efforts to transition away from fossil fuels, particularly in developing nations, where affordable access to solar power could be a game-changer for sustainable development.
Ahead of COP30
As the world prepares for COP30 in Brazil this November, all eyes will be on China’s next steps in climate leadership. With its vast clean energy infrastructure and ongoing investments in sustainability, China is poised to influence international climate action significantly.
Correa do Lago’s remarks underscore a growing expectation that China will continue to fill the gap left by other major economies, reinforcing its role as a global leader in climate resilience and renewable energy innovation.
