China's climate turning point

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China, the world's largest polluter, may have reached a pivotal moment in its emissions journey. After decades of rising pollution alongside economic growth, the nation appears poised to hit peak emissions ahead of its 2030 target.

China's economic slowdown is also playing a crucial role. Third-quarter growth hit its weakest pace in 18 months, cooling emissions-heavy industries like steel and cement. President Xi's strategy aims to permanently shift from polluting sectors to cleaner, high-tech manufacturing.

The numbers are striking – by 2020, China's coal consumption had quadrupled and carbon dioxide emissions more than tripled since 1990. The nation now accounts for over 30 percent of global carbon pollution, with its historical emissions roughly equalling the entire European Union's.