Chinese voice concerns amid record-breaking heat in 2024: Video
In 2024, China experienced its hottest year since records began in 1961, with an average national temperature of 10.92°C (51.66°F), marking a significant increase of 1.03°C from the previous year.
This unprecedented heat has sparked diverse reactions among Beijing residents, reflecting a mix of concern, resilience, and hope for the future.
For many Beijingers, the record-breaking temperatures have brought the realities of climate change closer to home. Xu Yici, a finance professional, lamented the impact on traditional winter activities.
"There's no ice in the Summer Palace. I was going to go ice skating, but I didn't get to do it this year," Xu shared.
Despite the challenges, some residents express confidence in the government's efforts to combat climate change. Xue Weiya, an IT worker, believes that "the Chinese government is doing a very good job of protecting the environment, so I don't think the weather will have a big impact on us."
Environmental advocates in Beijing are calling for more robust actions to address climate change. Greenpeace has warned of "alarming new trends in extreme heat" and emphasised the need for urgent measures to protect people's lives and livelihoods.
The organisation points out that days with extreme heat are arriving earlier each year, and the areas affected by such heat are expanding.
