China's 15th Five-Year Plans: Climate Goals Appear in 75% of Published Documents
An analysis by Carbon Brief of 72 five-year plans released by China's central government for the 2026-2030 period finds that 54 include climate-related policies or targets. The plans span sectors from renewable energy and fossil fuels to tourism and accounting methods. The interactive tracker highlights key targets and links to each plan's full text or summary.
Carbon Brief tracked 72 thematic five-year plans issued by China's central government ministries for the 2026-2030 period. Of these, 54 include climate-related policies or targets. The plans span sectors from renewable energy and fossil fuels to tourism and accounting methods, showing climate considerations permeating across government functions. The interactive tracker lists primary goals and links to each plan's full text.
The overarching plan sets a target of cutting carbon intensity by 17% over the five-year period. Commitments announced before March 2026 include reducing greenhouse gas emissions to 7-10% below peak levels by 2035. This period is critical because it builds toward China's pledge to peak CO2 emissions before 2030. Some plans also include non-numerical goals, such as enhancing extreme weather monitoring capabilities.
The breadth of climate coverage across China's five-year plans could signal to international markets and investors that environmental policy will remain a consistent priority through 2030. Businesses operating in China may need to align their strategies with sector-specific emissions targets, while provincial governments could face varying implementation pressures depending on their industries. The 17% carbon intensity reduction target may also influence global carbon markets and diplomatic negotiations, as China's trajectory toward peaking emissions before 2030 carries significant weight in international climate discussions.