China wants to lead the climate agenda on its own terms – exporting clean tech and influence, while sidestepping tougher cuts and accountability. By Alex Lo

Given that China is the world’s largest emitter and has a high carbon intensity, some assume that its trade war with the United States, which has shifted production to third countries, would have environmental benefits. In fact, the conflict has increased carbon dioxide emissions in developing and advanced economies alike. By Qiyuan Xu

COP30 delivered gains on climate finance and forests but stalled on fossil fuel phaseout – exposing both the limits of consensus talks and the growing role of action outside negotiations. By Jacqueline Peel

A decade ago, few governments could imagine a future without fossil fuels. But economic realities have changed and developing countries increasingly view the energy transition as a pathway to green growth. By Adriana Abdenur