China’s commitment to rein in carbon emissions is set for a boost with the likely appointment of Chen Jiming, head of Beijing’s Tsinghua University, as environment minister, local environmentalists say.

Zhou Shengxian, the incumbent, is due to step down in March. Previously director of the State Forestry Administration, he has disappointed China’s growing environmental movement, which had hoped for a more activist stance. Two years ago, he received the lowest number of votes of any ministerial candidate from delegates to the annual National People’s Congress, who were voting to approve appointments.

Mr Chen’s appointment has not yet been announced but has been reported by Hong Kong media and confirmed by figures close to Beijing. His appointment is expected to strengthen the role played by think-tanks affiliated with Tsinghua, one of China’s most prestigious universities, in setting policy.