Emission peak sooner than expected + Arbitrary arrests in Xinjiang

This week bears good news for climate change mitigation from China. A group of renowned energy analysts has found, based on Beijing’s ambitious renewable energy expansion programs, that China could reach the peak of its carbon emissions earlier than envisaged in its own climate targets. Instead of 2030, the peak could already be reached in 2025. However, provided that energy consumption does not rise faster than previously predicted. Nico Beckert analyzes which other hurdles China still has to overcome. Since China is the world’s largest carbon emitter, the success of the country’s climate measures is important for all of us.

China is building many of its gigantic wind and solar farms in Xinjiang – a region that otherwise mainly produces bad headlines. For years, reports have been mounting that up to one million Uyghurs and members of other minorities are being detained in re-education and sinicization camps on Beijing’s orders. It now becomes clear that many have either been detained under kin punishment or out of mere arbitrariness. Marcel Grzanna has taken a closer look at a leaked list outlining reasons for internment.

By the way, it is said that UN High Commissioner for Human Rights Michelle Bachelet will “soon” be permitted to tour Xinjiang. It remains to be seen whether the former Chilean president will be able to gain a halfway credible picture of the situation.

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Christiane Kühl