The United Kingdom is working to form a global coalition with China and developing nations to counter President Donald Trump’s rejection of climate policies and alignment with fossil fuel-heavy countries.
Fiona Harvey reports for The Guardian.
In short:
- The UK's energy secretary, Ed Miliband, is in Beijing for talks on green technology, coal, and critical minerals needed for clean energy.
- China’s emissions have stalled, but its climate actions may shift in response to Trump’s trade war and potential European Union carbon tariffs.
- Experts argue that a pro-climate alliance of China, the UK, the EU, and vulnerable nations is crucial to counter fossil fuel expansion led by the U.S., Russia, and Saudi Arabia.
Key quote:
“We can only keep future generations safe from climate change if all major emitters act.”
— Ed Miliband, UK energy and net zero secretary
Why this matters:
The United States’ shifting stance on climate policy is sending ripples through global efforts to cut emissions, raising concerns that the already fragile push to limit warming to 1.5°C may be slipping further from reach. With the Trump administration reversing key climate commitments, international cooperation is at an inflection point.
The stakes are high. Scientists warn that surpassing 1.5°C of warming could trigger more extreme weather, sea level rise, and disruptions to food and water supplies. With time running out, the world is watching to see whether political will can overcome economic and diplomatic headwinds.
Learn more: Trump’s climate stance may open a door for China
