From floods to heatwaves: summers in China get wetter and hotter
Climate has sounded new alarms this summer.In just seven days, Beijing and Hebei were drenched by a year’s worth of rain. Meanwhile, temperatures in Henan, Sichuan, and Xinjiang have repeatedly soared past 40°C.In today’s episode, we speak with Ma Jun, Director of the Institute of Public and Environmental Affairs, about what these weather events reveal about climate change—and how we should respond.
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What does critical China-EU summit mean for climate?
As global temperatures rise and extreme weather becomes the new norm, climate cooperation between major powers is more crucial than ever. In this episode of Climate Watch, we focus on the latest China–EU summit held in Beijing—where climate stood out as a rare bright spot in a complex geopolitical agenda. Fei Fei speaks with Antoine Oger, Executive Director of the Institute for European Environmental Policy, to unpack what this high-level meeting means for global climate action. From carbon markets and methane emissions to new EU climate laws and China’s green innovation efforts, the conversation explores how the two sides can manage their differences and collaborate more deeply. Can China and the EU truly lead the world toward a low-carbon future?
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China, EU expand and deepen green cooperation
China and the EU have been conducting green cooperation for two decades, with many notable achievements. In this episode, Zhou Fang spoke with Wu Changhua, the President of the Global Climate Academy and Chair of the Governing Council of the Asia Pacific Water Forum, about how the two sides are expanding and deepening green cooperation. We discuss how Chinese new energy companies contribute to the EU’s green transition by utilizing its advantages. We take a closer look at how Chinese enterprises can navigate possible impacts from the EU’s Critical Raw Materials Act and an upcoming tax policy.
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Can technology turn the tide on flooding?
Smart water systems are playing a crucial role in addressing intensified extreme weather events caused by climate change. In this episode, Zhou Fang spoke with Cao Ying, Professor of Water Resources and Hydropower from Sichuan Agricultural University, about how China’s innovative practices, such as forecasting, early warning and simulation are empowering its water management systems. We also take a closer look at how the country utilizes precision simulation systems for global climate change assessment and other high technologies to enhance its flood and drought prevention and control as well as raising water management efficiency.
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Why methane matters
While carbon dioxide gets most of the climate spotlight, methane is the stealthy super-pollutant warming our planet—fast. In this episode, Fei Fei explores why methane emissions are one of the most urgent and solvable climate challenges today. She speaks with Marcelo Mena, CEO of the Global Methane Hub and former environment minister of Chile.Main topics covered:· Where methane emissions come from (hint: it’s not just cow burps)· Why methane accounts for nearly half of today’s warming· How countries and companies can cut emissions using existing tools—often at low or no cost· Why global cooperation on methane is gaining real momentum
Climate Watch delves into the pressing climate tipping points that loom large on the horizon. We deliver the latest updates on the climate change landscape and shed light on the urgent need for collective efforts in tackling climate change. By talking to locals, experts, and activists from across the world, we aim to inspire and empower listeners to be part of the solution. Join our weekly journey into the heart of climate change for a sustainable future for generations to come.
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