Chinese Attitudes Toward Greta Thunberg and the History of Climate Change Research in China

Abstract

AbstractChina and the West have different social and cultural backgrounds, political systems, and development situations, making the Chinese approach to climate change different from the Western approach. Due to these differences, Greta Thunberg and her climate movement have received different reactions from Western societies and in China. However, the Chinese people and Thunberg share a common goal of tackling climate change and reducing carbon emissions. In Chinese society, it is widely believed that tackling climate change requires actions rather than slogans. At the government level, this has involved unprecedented determination, a willingness to reduce carbon emissions in an orderly manner, and an insistence on an equal emphasis on development and ecology. The Chinese academic community has carried out in‐depth research on climate change and has constantly popularized the content of climate change and environmental protection to the public. Traditional Chinese culture advocates the unity and harmonious coexistence of humans and nature. The public is also active in controlling carbon emissions, choosing green energy and planting trees, and is confident in tackling climate change. For now, China is more eager to expand practical actions than to participate in Thunberg's symbolic strike.