China is intensifying its efforts to combat climate change by strengthening its early warning systems for extreme weather events and calling for international cooperation on this global challenge. Zhang Xingying, a member of the 14th National Committee of the Chinese People’s Political Consultative Conference (CPPCC) and deputy head of the Department of Science, Technology and Climate Change at the China Meteorological Administration, made these remarks on Monday at the “Members’ Corridor” during the Two Sessions.
“2023 has been the hottest year on record since 1850,” Zhang stated. “Climate change has profoundly affected natural systems and human society, posing a challenge that all humanity must face together.”
China’s Active Role in Tackling Climate Change
As a member country of the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC), China has played an active role in global climate governance. Chinese scientists have been elected as co-chairs of IPCC Working Group I for five consecutive terms, contributing significantly to international climate research.
Leading in Renewable Energy and Reforestation
China now leads the world in renewable energy installations and accounts for one-fourth of the global increase in afforestation areas. Additionally, China operates four near-Earth orbit meteorological satellites simultaneously—covering dawn, morning, afternoon, and oblique orbits—a unique capability that provides real-time Earth observation data to 129 countries.
Early Warning Systems Save Lives and Reduce Losses
“In the face of increasingly frequent extreme weather events, early warning systems are the most effective tools,” Zhang emphasized. “With just 24 hours of advance warning, disaster losses can be reduced by 30 percent. Early warning not only saves lives but also offers at least a tenfold return on investment.”
Since 2015, China has gradually established a national early warning system. The country also provides technical support and assistance for disaster early warning to other Asian nations and countries along the Belt and Road Initiative.
A Call for Global Cooperation
“Climate change is a global challenge of universal concern,” Zhang concluded. “We must uphold the concept of a community with a shared future for mankind and work together to address climate change.”
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
