We were thrilled to see the strengthening of the China-France relationship as it relates to sustainability during President of France Emanuel Macron’s State visit to China, where he met with President Xi.
Sustainability was a key agenda point during the visit, with both countries reaffirming their carbon neutrality commitments (France is committed to carbon neutrality by 2050. China is committed to striving for a peak of carbon dioxide emissions by 2030 and achieving carbon neutrality by 2060). The two countries will adopt policies and measures to implement the Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs) established in accordance with the goals of the Paris agreement.
The share of GHG emissions that the construction sector is accountable for was also recognised, with both countries actively considering joining the ‘Building Breakthrough’ initiative. France and China will strengthen cooperation to promote building energy conservation, carbon reduction and sustainable urban development.
China also confirmed it will attend the Global Compact on Climate Change Summit to be held in Paris in June 2023.
At RESET Carbon, we see that more and more multinational companies are very concerned about the promotion of their business emission reduction targets in China. Our teams on the ground are proactively supporting businesses in the real estate, apparel, electronics, and food and beverage industries with carbon reduction service, and supporting long-term strategy on businesses procure renewable energy in China.
Here’s to increased collaboration and strong progress for governments and businesses on their carbon commitments.
Click here for the official release on the Xi, Macron informal meeting in China.
An excerpt from the China – Joint statement by the French Republic and the People’s Republic of China
V. A joint response to global challenges
- France and China reaffirm their respective commitments to climate neutrality and carbon neutrality. France is committed to achieving climate neutrality by 2050. China is committed to reaching its CO2 emissions peak by 2030 and to achieving carbon neutrality by 2060. The two countries will adopt policies and measures to implement their goals as regards nationally-determined contributions aligned with those of the Paris Agreement.
- They hugely appreciate the progress on climate change made at COP27 and are committed to maintaining close discussions and coordination in the run-up to COP28, so that the first global stocktake of the Paris Agreement will be a success and encouraging progress can be seen on issues like mitigation, adaptation, loss and damage, as well as implementation methods.
- France and China are aware that the building sector accounts for a large share of their greenhouse gas emissions and are actively considering joining the Buildings Breakthrough initiative. The two countries are stepping up their cooperation to promote reduced energy consumption and decarbonization of buildings and to encourage sustainable urban development.
Reference: French Embassy in London Website: ‘https://uk.ambafrance.org/President-Macron-pays-State-visit-to-China’ [accessed 14th April 2023]
