In your opinion, what is the biggest barrier for the global climate talks?

The climate talks are a very complicated process involving economic, social, scientific and ecological issues. But the process has slowed in recent years because many developed countries refused to shoulder their responsibilities or were just paying lip service to their pledges. This is in large part due to a lack of recognition of their historical responsibilities.

The first commitment period of the Kyoto Protocol will expire in 2012, and a second commitment period needs to be finalized. But some developed countries are trying to avoid further responsibilities and completely change the direction and the mandates of the negotiation in the second commitment period. There is a misconception that developing countries are at an advantage since they bear fewer emission reduction obligations and refuse to take actions. The truth is developing countries are also making stiff efforts, though they are entitled to equitable space for future development.

All developing countries including China oppose any proposal to rewrite or abandon the Kyoto Protocol.

What role has China played in the global campaign to tackle climate change?

The Chinese Government takes the problem of climate change seriously, and has implemented an array of concrete measures to reduce carbon emissions. In climate negotiations, China has also played an active and constructive role, together with other countries, to steer the world toward a climate-resilient future. 

But preventing climate disaster requires a concerted effort from the international community. Haggling over one's own gains and losses will not solve the crisis, but will only exacerbate the stalemate.

For its part, China aims to cut carbon dioxide emissions per unit of GDP by 40-45 percent from 2005 levels by 2020. The country also hopes that by 2020, non-fossil fuels will account for 15 percent of its energy consumption and its forest coverage rate will reach 23 percent.

The goal is not within easy reach. At a stage of rapid industrialization and urbanization, China will experience reasonable growth in demands for energy. In addition, the country has nearly 100 million residents still living below the United Nation's poverty line of $1 per day. That means significant constraints in the ability of controlling greenhouse gas emissions.

By the end of 2010, the country is expected to lower energy consumption per unit of GDP by 20 percent from 2005 levels. The result comes at a painful cost - the government has stepped up a heavy clampdown on energy-guzzling sectors and has phased out a handful of polluting industrial capacities.

But after picking the low-hanging fruits, going green will become a bumpier long road for China. The only option is to accelerate restructuring of the economy and to switch to renewable energies. Vigorous efforts are also needed to boost the energy efficiency and green industries.

Despite those difficulties, China is confident it will fulfill its commitment. The green endeavor will require a compromise on economic growth, but is well worth the effort, given its far-reaching implications.