China’s carbon dioxide emissions have decreased by 1% following the outbreak of the US-Israeli war on Iran. This decline is attributed to a significant reduction in oil consumption, which fell by 9%, and a notable increase in the use of electric vehicles and public transport. Analysts suggest that this trend may indicate a turning point in China’s efforts to decarbonise its economy, as the country adapts to geopolitical pressures affecting oil supply.
The war has prompted China to cut oil imports by 32%, equivalent to about a million barrels a day, stabilising global oil prices despite a surge in costs. The shift towards electric vehicles has been ongoing, but the current crisis has accelerated this transition, with many petrol and diesel vehicles remaining off the roads.
Experts believe that much of the reduced demand for oil may not return, even if prices fall. This shift is seen as a validation of China’s energy security strategy, reinforcing the importance of reducing dependence on fossil fuels. The country is already the largest manufacturer and user of electric vehicles, wind turbines, and solar panels.
As China continues to navigate the impacts of global conflicts on energy supply, the experience gained may further bolster its commitment to decarbonisation. Observers predict that a peak in fossil fuel use is approaching, driven by both economic and strategic imperatives to minimise exposure to geopolitical risks.
Source: The Guardian
