China at work on climate protection plans

BERLIN, July 16 (UPI) -- A climate protection plan from Beijing should be finalized by early next year, a director at the National Development and Reform Commission said from Berlin.

China is the world leader in emissions. Beijing says it's readjusted its economic structure in a way that promotes green energy and a low-carbon economy in an effort to combat climate change.

Zie Zhenhua, vice chairman of the NDRC, says the government is working on reports outlining the trajectory of a low-carbon economy.

"We have been developing our climate protection plan for beyond 2020 for a year now," he said Tuesday. "We expect it to be finalized by the first quarter of 2015."

China and the United States signed memorandums of understanding last week that envision a wide range of climate initiatives, though differences remain between both sides in terms of the climate responsibilities of developed and developing countries.

In June, British Energy Secretary Ed Davey said his country stands united with China in plans aimed at reducing emissions and enhancing energy security.