As COP29 draws to a close, voices from across the region have been highlighting their contributions, challenges and aspirations to address the climate crisis.
Among these voices was Pui Cheong Chen, CEO of the Hong Kong Quality Insurance Authority and representative in Hong Kong, who shared his observations of China’s developments, China’s role as a global player, and expectations from developed countries.
China’s journey toward green transition
PC Chen highlighted the significant progress China has made to combat climate change, especially since the Paris Agreement. He said, “Less than 10 years after the Paris Agreement, there have been great and great achievements for China, and we have been able to see great progress and many achievements by the Chinese government.”
This progress is rooted in the government’s commitment to renewable energy and a low-carbon transition across a range of sectors.
Chen described COP29’s China pavilion as a hub of innovation, showcasing achievements not only in Hong Kong but also in regions such as Guangdong and Shenzhen.
“The many shares, including our own sessions, revealed developments and achievements from private sector, business and government perspectives,” he said.
Hong Kong, where Chen lives, has made a strong commitment to carbon neutrality. Initiatives include encouraging sustainable fuels, providing subsidies to power plants to switch to clean energy sources, and switching from traditional fossil fuels to low-carbon alternatives such as natural gas.
The role of developing countries
China and other developing countries have made significant progress, but Chen noted there is a difference in the pace of action between developed and developing countries. “Honestly, we have seen a lot of positive progress in developing countries, but developed countries seem to be taking a more passive and conservative approach,” he said.
He praised the significant investments made by Middle Eastern countries in innovative energy solutions and green technologies and highlighted their proactive actions, unlike some developed countries.
Demand for a global carbon market
According to Chen, one of the highlights of COP29 was progress under Article 6.4 of the Paris Agreement related to global carbon markets. “This could be a good start in promoting an integrated global carbon market,” he said. Chen believes such a framework will encourage organizations and countries to reduce carbon emissions and promote cooperation across the economy.
He also emphasized that developed countries should contribute more financially and technologically. “Many of these new initiatives require financial resources for change. “Developed countries have cutting-edge technologies that can bring great change to society, but they are often hesitant to share them,” he said.
China’s role as a leader
China’s status as a developing country is often debated due to its enormous economic size and enormous global influence. Chen acknowledged China’s difficulties, especially after COVID-19, but expressed optimism about its potential. “China has a very strong economic foundation and can do more by mobilizing contributions from various sectors of society as well as government policies,” he said.
Chen emphasized the role of coastal regions such as Guangdong and Shenzhen, which are well developed and can lead the green transition. He advocated encouraging both state-owned and private companies to contribute to climate goals.
A message for climate negotiators
In his message for COP29, Chen called on developed countries to take greater responsibility. “Developed countries must contribute more, both financially and through technology sharing. Response to climate change is for the common good. “It’s not about individual countries, it’s about the world as a whole,” he said.
Chen concluded by expressing pride in China’s efforts, emphasizing China’s proactive approach and innovative solutions as a responsible global company. His reflections highlight the importance of collaboration, innovation and shared responsibility in solving the climate crisis. This is a sentiment that was echoed throughout the COP29 discussions.
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© Interpress Service (2024) — All Rights ReservedOriginal source: Interpress Service
