New ministry to help nation keep word on emissions

China's newly established Ministry of Ecology and Environment will play a significant role in meeting the commitment to the reduction of greenhouse gas emissions worldwide, said an official from the Energy Foundation - an international non-governmental organization aimed at promoting the use of clean, reliable, and secure sources of energy.

In addition, it will also help China cut local pollutant emissions, such as PM 2.5 - particulate matter with a diameter of or less than 2.5 micrometers, sulfur dioxide and nitrogen oxides, said Zou Ji, president of the Energy Foundation China.

"China's current energy structure is able to reduce both greenhouse gas and local pollutant emissions simultaneously. With the new ministry established, the government will have more control over technical, political, strategic and financial solutions, realizing a synergistic effect," Zou said.