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"China Outlines Cuts in Carbon Emissions"

"BEIJING — With global climate talks set to begin next week, China on Tuesday issued the most comprehensive document yet on its plans and negotiating positions on emissions."



"Although much of the information has been released before, it is the first time the data has been presented comprehensively — part of China's strategy to make its accomplishments better known ahead of the talks, which begin on Monday in Durban, South Africa. China, the world's largest contributor to carbon emissions, highlighted its success in reducing emissions per unit of gross domestic product, an indicator that its industries are becoming more energy efficient. The country's overall carbon emissions have been rising, however, with the growth of its industries.

The report also gives a rare nod to nongovernmental organizations, which usually are frowned upon by China's authorities. The report mentions favorably "Earth Hour," a project by the World Wildlife Fund, and praises the work of another private organization, the Energy Foundation. The report also indicates that China will follow its previous position of pressuring developing countries to do more."

Ian Johnson reports for the New York Times November 22, 2011.

Source: NY Times, 11/23/2011