In a remarkable move, China passed a Renewable Energy Promotion Law on February 28, 2005, setting targets for developing renewable energy sources. China is the world's second largest emitter of carbon dioxide. But it has no binding obligations under the Kyoto Protocol, the global treaty to fight climate change, to cut greenhouse gas (ghg) emissions.
The law will be enforced from January 1, 2006. It gives renewable energy producers grid access and provides for spreading the costs of new clean energy technologies across the electricity sector. "China could and should be a world leader in renewable energy development...the international community will get behind China," says Steve Sawyer of environmental group Greenpeace International.
In another development, us president George W Bush recently signed a pact with German Chancellor Gerhard Schoreder to help developing nations like China and India adopt clean energy technologies. The move was widely perceived as a pressure-deflecting attempt by the us, the world's biggest polluter.
We are a voice to you; you have been a support to us. Together we build journalism that is independent, credible and fearless. You can further help us by making a donation. This will mean a lot for our ability to bring you news, perspectives and analysis from the ground so that we can make change together.
.png)
Comments are moderated and will be published only after the site moderator’s approval. Please use a genuine email ID and provide your name. Selected comments may also be used in the ‘Letters’ section of the Down To Earth print edition.