China announces emission cut targets

BEIJING, Nov. 26 (UPI) -- China, saying it is acting voluntarily, Thursday announced it will reduce its "intensity" of carbon dioxide emissions by 40 to 45 percent by 2020.

The percentage cuts are based on levels in 2005. The "intensity" gauge refers to emissions per unit of its gross domestic product or GDP.

The announcement on the targets to limit greenhouse gas emissions comes only days ahead of the December global summit on climate change in the Danish capital of Copenhagen.

This is "a voluntary action" taken by the Chinese government "based on our own national conditions" and "is a major contribution to the global effort in tackling climate change," the Chinese State Council, or Cabinet, announced after its meeting led by Chinese Premier Wen Jiabao, the state-run Xinhua news agency reported.

Xinhua quoted a news release as saying China, as a responsible developing nation, advocates global concerted efforts in addressing climate change "through pragmatic and effective international cooperation."