The plan states that China will reduce emissions by using more wind, nuclear and hydro power, and by making coal-fired plants more efficient. “The main priorities of developing countries are sustainable development and poverty eradication,” says the plan. Mandatory emission caps are not supported, because they would hinder the development and hamper industrialization,” explained Mr. Ma Kai, chairman of China’s National Development and Reform Commission.

According to the BBC, Mr Kai said rich industrialized countries are responsible for most of the greenhouse gases produced over the last century and consequently they would have to do the most to tackle climate change.

China is on its way to replacing the US as the world’s largest CO2-emitter by the end of this year. According to a local BBC correspondent, China’s environmental track record is faulty at best: “So far, China has missed almost every environmental target it has set itself.”

More information:

BBC: ‘China unveils climate change plan’, 04-06-2007