U.S. scales back climate rules as extreme weather costs $115B, while China stabilizes emissions and invests heavily in clean energy.

The U.S. is rolling back climate regulations and supporting fossil fuels despite worsening extreme weather linked to $115 billion in damages over three years and warnings of irreversible global heating. Meanwhile, China has held carbon emissions flat or declining for 21 months, expanded emissions reporting, and directed over 90% of new energy investment to clean sources. Though China is the top current emitter, its per capita and historical emissions remain below those of the U.S. Concerns persist over Xinjiang labor practices, mineral dominance, and global market impacts from low-cost renewables. China’s future climate trajectory depends on its upcoming five-year plan.