I'm generally in the fuck China camp, but their embracing of green energy solutions is the best thing I've seen come out of that country in my lifetime. They're not beholden to resource lobbyists who want to keep gas/coal/oil in as much use as possible.
this post was submitted on 06 Jan 2026
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How does anyone replace anyone else when it comes to climate change? Sure, you can develop technology, but the countries who choose not to use it are still spewing their shit into our shared climate.
The US is dependent on international trade. If they're the only ones emitting too much, the rest of the world could sanction them, reducing their emissions by collapsing their economy.
With the US making moves on Greenland with no sign of being satisfied after, the EU would probably be up for those sanctions at some point.
I think it's referring to a perceived position as global leader in positive climate action. That with the US losing any hope of effective climate regulation, China could choose a more climate-friendly direction. They can develop technology, and can implement it. China's CO2 emissions are very significant (this BBC article claims 30% of global emissions), so if it takes aggressive action it could make a serious impact on global emissions.
Due to its global position, it could likely pressure allies or promote the adoption of Chinese green technologies.
I am not saying any of this will happen, but China is certainly not powerless. I do agree that other countries would still be an issue - countries with lax environmental regulations could be cheaper manufactures and divert global manufacturing, lessening the impact of any Chinese action.
See, China is run by a dictator, and they're doing good things. Doesn't America want a dictator, too? Hmmm?
One of the issues with dictators is that they reflect the people that put them in power. Every dictator Americans have put in power so far has been a fascist who was bad for the local economy.