The UK aims to forge a new global coalition centered on climate action, partnering with China and various developing nations. This initiative seeks to counteract the effects of Donald Trump’s environmental policies, which have been marked by a significant rollback on green initiatives and a lean towards nations with climate-hostile agendas, such as Russia and Saudi Arabia. Ed Miliband, the UK’s energy and net-zero secretary, landed in Beijing this Friday for critical talks with Chinese officials, focusing on green technology supply chains, coal usage, and the essential minerals for renewable energy. Despite the UK’s green economy growing at thrice the rate of the national economy, access to these components is crucial for sustained growth.
Miliband emphasized, “We must engage with China on climate action for the safety of future generations; it’s a responsibility to the current and future population not to overlook China’s role.” He further stated, “Effective climate action within the UK alone, without compelling larger nations to contribute, won’t safeguard future generations. Protecting our farmers, retirees, and children requires global cooperation.”
China currently faces US tariffs and the looming threat of EU green tariffs on high-carbon exports. Despite being the world’s largest greenhouse gas emitter, China has seen a rise in exports of electric vehicles, solar panels, and other low-carbon products. However, its reliance on coal remains significant, and whether emissions will be reduced largely depends on its response to Trump’s trade policies.
Experts believe that forming a pro-climate bloc involving China, the EU, the UK, and vulnerable developing countries is essential to counteract the influence of nations pushing for expanded fossil fuel use, such as the US, Russia, Saudi Arabia, and other petroleum-producing states.
Miliband’s visit is a first in eight years by a UK energy secretary and follows similar visits to India and Brazil. Catherine Abreu from the International Climate Politics Hub noted the necessity of China’s involvement and its willingness to collaborate on climate issues.
The upcoming UN climate summit, Cop30, set against the backdrop of severe geopolitical tensions, threatens the prospects of the Paris agreement’s temperature rise limits. With most nations missing the deadline for submitting emissions cut plans and with China’s relatively weak carbon targets, Miliband’s negotiations will be pivotal.
Source: https://www.theguardian.com/environment/2025/mar/14/uk-hoping-to-work-with-china-to-counteract-trumps-climate-hostile-policies
