30 Under 30 – The Policy Shapers: Young Voices in China’s Climate Diplomacy
How He Fang, a 29-year-old diplomat, is bringing China’s Gen Z perspective to global climate negotiations.
📝 By Jonathan Reyes | Macro & Geopolitics Editor
From Local Roots to Global Platforms
He Fang (29) grew up in Nanjing, surrounded by historical reminders of China’s resilience. As a teenager, she excelled in debate clubs, often quoting classical texts like “天人合一 (harmony between humanity and nature)”. Her passion for the environment and diplomacy guided her to study international relations at Peking University, later specializing in climate policy.
While many of her peers pursued corporate careers, He Fang joined China’s Ministry of Ecology and Environment, determined to give youth a voice in climate action.
A Gen Z Diplomat at the Negotiation Table
In 2022, He Fang represented China at the UN Youth Climate Forum, where she spoke about balancing economic growth with environmental responsibility. Unlike older negotiators who often focus on abstract targets, she emphasizes practical solutions: renewable financing for developing countries, green jobs for young workers, and cross-border technology exchanges.
Her speeches, peppered with references to both Chinese proverbs and modern data, have made her stand out. “Diplomacy is not just about words,” she says. “It’s about building trust across cultures while staying rooted in your own.”
Bridging Generations and Nations
He Fang’s role is unique—she serves as a bridge between China’s Gen Z and the global stage. At home, she consults with student-led green groups, gathering their ideas before major conferences. Abroad, she frames those ideas in policy language that resonates with foreign diplomats.
She argues that climate change is not just a scientific or political issue but also a generational contract: “We, the young, will live with the consequences. So, we must also shape the solutions.”
Recognition and Challenges
In 2023, He Fang was listed in Forbes China 30 Under 30 – Policy & Public Service. Her participation in climate summits has drawn praise from international media as part of China’s new generation of soft power envoys.
Yet she faces challenges. Climate negotiations are tough, and some critics question whether young voices have real influence. He Fang responds with humility: “I don’t expect to rewrite the playbook overnight. But I can make sure our generation is heard.”
A Future in Global Leadership
Looking ahead, He Fang is working on China’s Green Belt and Road Initiative, helping partner countries finance solar and wind projects. She hopes to build a career where diplomacy and sustainability remain inseparable.
On her desk in Beijing, a framed line from Confucius inspires her daily: “为政以德 (govern with virtue).” She explains: “For me, virtue means leaving behind a livable planet.”
A Voice for a Greener Tomorrow
He Fang embodies the rise of Chinese youth in international diplomacy—confident, informed, and culturally grounded. She represents not just China’s ambitions but also the determination of a generation that refuses to accept climate change as inevitable.As she puts it: “Our ancestors built walls to protect the nation. We must build green bridges to protect the planet.”
