CLIMATE CHANGE IN CHINA: CHALLENGES, OPPORTUNITIES, AND PATHWAYS FOR SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT

Abstract

This research examines the multifaceted impact of climate change on China, with a particular focus on the major challenges the country faces and the opportunities available for addressing them in the context of sustainable development. By analyzing a range of environmental, economic, and social factors while using secondary data with literature and document analysis, the study delves into the complex interactions that shape China’s climate response. It highlights the pressing risks associated with climate change, including the vulnerability of coastal cities to rising sea levels, the strain on water resources in the north, and the ongoing transition to a low-carbon economy. The research also explores potential pathways for adaptation and mitigation, emphasizing the importance of policy reform, technological innovation, and international cooperation. While acknowledging the significant hurdles China faces, such as the reliance on fossil fuels and the challenges of scaling renewable energy, the study identifies opportunities for sustainable development. These include advancements in green energy technologies, infrastructure investments, and local-level climate adaptation strategies. Ultimately, the research provides a comprehensive assessment of how China can balance growth with environmental sustainability in the face of climate change.