Global Emissions Reduction: Motivators, obstacles and the role of Germany

KEY FINDINGS:

Importance of the Paris Agreement: The Paris Agreement on climate change is very relevant in China and was widely supported by those interviewed. However, they were only cautiously optimistic about its global implementation.

Motivators and Incentives: Maintaining long-term competitiveness and national prestige are the two main motivators for reducing emissions. As the central actor, the state focuses on economic incentives.

Obstacles: The conflict of interest between emissions reduction and economic growth, consumer demand and social stability presents obstacles to meeting climate goals in China.

Perceptions of Germany: Germany is seen as a role model in terms of protecting the environment, promoting business and technology, and making it a welcome partner on emissions reduction issues.

Authors:

Dr Hans-Jürgen Frieß and Katja Kiefer, Ipsos
Jasper Eitze and Vedrana Lemor, Konrad-Adenauer-Stiftung