Global South 2025: More synergy needed for a green, sustainable tomorrow

In 2025, climate change reached a critical stage, particularly in the Global South, said Erik Solheim, former under secretary-general of the United Nations and executive Director of the UN Environment Programme.

Despite rapid growth in renewable energy, many developing countries face persistent challenges such as inadequate financing, limited technology access and weak adaptive capacity, while geopolitical tensions have further complicated global climate governance.

Against this backdrop, China has emerged as a key driver of climate action, leading global renewable deployment and clean technology manufacturing. Through new climate targets aligned with the Paris Agreement, governance initiatives and expanded South-South cooperation, China is helping promote a more inclusive and equitable approach to global climate action and sustainable development.