In a significant move towards its environmental goals, China has announced plans to embed carbon emission targets into its national economic and social development agenda. The working plan, released by the General Office of the State Council on Friday, outlines strategies to accelerate the establishment of mechanisms controlling both the total volume and intensity of carbon emissions.
By 2025, China aims to enhance its capabilities in the statistical analysis, accounting, monitoring, and measurement of carbon emissions. These improvements are part of a broader effort to refine the country’s approach to managing its carbon footprint, as outlined in the recently published plan.
During the 15th Five-Year Plan period (2026–2030), China will focus on curbing the intensity of carbon emissions. Following the peak of carbon emissions, the emphasis will shift towards controlling the total amount of emissions. This strategic pivot signifies China’s commitment to adjusting its environmental policies in line with its evolving economic landscape.
The plan also calls for enhanced efforts to improve carbon emission planning mechanisms. This includes establishing local emission assessment systems, exploring early warning and control mechanisms for key industries and sectors, and strengthening carbon reduction management within enterprises.
China has set ambitious dual carbon goals: peaking carbon emissions by 2030 and achieving carbon neutrality by 2060. Since 2016, controlling both the total amount and intensity of energy consumption has been a binding requirement for local governments in their economic and social development initiatives.
In line with these objectives, a key document unveiled recently pledges to implement new mechanisms facilitating the transition from controlling energy consumption to focusing on the total amount and intensity of carbon emissions. This shift is part of China’s broader efforts to promote green and low-carbon development across the nation.
China’s integration of carbon targets into its national plans underscores its dedication to environmental sustainability. By refining its strategies and focusing on both the intensity and total volume of emissions, China is positioning itself to meet its long-term environmental commitments while continuing to foster economic growth.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
