China's New NDC - Where do we go from here? - with Kate Logan, ASPI

China's New NDC - Where do we go from here? - with Kate Logan, ASPI

Author: Beijing Energy Network October 6, 2025 Duration: 26:58

China recently released its official NDC, or Nationally Determined Contribution document, laying out a commitment to reduce carbon emissions 'from peak' by 7-10% by 2035. The document was widely seen as disappointing. Now that the NDC and the initial reactions are out, it's time to take a step back and evaluate the bigger picture. What does this target really mean? What does the NDC signal about China's 15th Five-Year Plan, or for its major emitting sectors such as coal power or coal-to-chemicals? What impact did climate diplomacy or weakened/withdrawn climate commitments from other economies have on China's NDC? Is there a chance that China will use other policies to 'enhance its ambition'?

Our guest today is Kate Logan  Director, China Climate Hub and Climate Diplomacy at the Asia Society Policy Institute. Logan is also a Fellow with ASPI's Center for China Analysis. Her work focuses on enhancing climate progress across Asia and in China especially, including by supporting the international community's engagement with China's climate agenda. She previously worked with ClimateWorks, and also in Beijing with the Natural Resources Defense Council, and the Institute of Public & Environmental Affairs. Kate was one of the founders of the Environment China podcast, almost a decade ago, so she has a long connection to the Beijing Energy Network!

Further reading:

Kate Logan and Li Shuo, 'Beijing disappoints on ambition and misses a chance at leadership', Asia Society Policy Institute, September 2025, at https://asiasociety.org/policy-institute/unpacking-chinas-new-headline-climate-targets.


Produced by the Beijing Energy Network, Environment China is a bilingual podcast that delves into the complex and vital stories shaping China's ecological landscape. Rather than offering broad pronouncements, it focuses on grounded conversations with the people on the front lines: the advocates campaigning for change, the entrepreneurs building sustainable solutions, and the researchers providing crucial data. Each episode explores the intersection of society, culture, and science, revealing how environmental policy and daily life are intertwined. You'll hear specific discussions about conservation efforts, green technology, urban design, and community initiatives, all framed within the unique context of modern China. This podcast provides a necessary platform for these nuanced voices, translating complex issues into accessible dialogue. It’s an essential listen for anyone seeking to move beyond headlines and understand the real-world work being done to address environmental challenges. By listening to Environment China, you gain insight into the multifaceted movement towards sustainability, one conversation at a time.
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