China's Green Development in the New Era

An aerial view of the West Lake in Hangzhou, Zhejiang province, on Nov 23, 2022. Editor's Note: China's State Council Information Office on Thursday released a white paper titled "China's Green Development in the New Era." China has endeavored to cut carbon emissions, reduce pollution, expand green development, and pursue economic growth. Panel 1 Policies and Actions on Carbon Emissions Peaking and Carbon Neutrality The "1+N" policy framework for carbon emissions peaking and carbon neutrality: The "1+N" policy framework comprises of two top-level design documents, i.e., the Working Guidance for Carbon Dioxide Peaking and Carbon Neutrality in Full and Faithful Implementation of the New Development Philosophy, the Action Plan for Carbon Dioxide Peaking Before 2030, and the action plans to achieve carbon emissions peak in key areas and sectors such as energy, industry, transport, urban and rural construction, iron & steel, non-ferrous metals, and cement, plus the support measures in technology, finance, standards, and talent development. Ten major actions for carbon emissions peaking: In accordance with the Action Plan for Carbon Dioxide Peaking Before 2030, China will take 10 actions: • for green and low-carbon energy transition; • for energy saving, carbon emissions reduction, and efficiency improvement; • for carbon emissions peaking in industry; • for carbon emissions peaking in urban and rural development; • for promoting green and low-carbon transport; • for facilitating carbon emissions reduction through the circular economy; • for encouraging innovation in green and low-carbon technology; • for consolidating and improving carbon sink capacity; • for advocating a green and low-carbon lifestyle nationwide; • for reaching carbon emissions peak by different regions in a structured and orderly manner.