China and the United States, the world's two largest emitters of greenhouse gases blamed for global warming, launched a joint research effort today to produce more fuel-efficient vehicles and energy efficient buildings.

"I know we can accomplish more by working together than we can by working alone," U.S. Energy Secretary Stephen Chu said at a press briefing with Chinese officials.

"Making buildings more efficient represents one of the greatest, and most immediate opportunities we have to create jobs, save money, save energy and reduce carbon pollution," said Secretary Chu. "Our goal should be buildings that are 80 percent more efficient. Doing so will save families money and create millions of jobs in both countries."

Committing an initial $15 million to the project, they will also focus on new technology to reduce and sequester carbon dioxide emissions from burning coal.

The U.S.-China Clean Energy Research Center will facilitate joint research and development on clean energy by teams of scientists and engineers from the U.S. and China, as well as serve as a clearinghouse to help researchers in each country.  Priority topics to be addressed will initially include building energy efficiency, clean coal including carbon capture and storage, and clean vehicles.  The U.S. and China together pledged $15 million to support initial activities.

The Center will have one headquarters in each country, at locations to be determined. U.S. and Chinese officials will discuss elements of the Center in the months ahead, with the objective of launching initial operations by year end.

(Read more in Reuters)

Thanks to Tony Milch for submitting the link!