By Wang Haiqin, Gao Shiji, Han Xue, Huang Junyong, Institute for Resources and Environment Policies, DRC

Research Report, No. 4, 2023 (Total 6953) 2023-1-6

Abstract: With the implementation of the policies on carbon peaking and carbon neutrality, China is speeding up its low-carbon transformation. The public awareness of low-carbon transformation has greatly improved, and low-carbon ideas have prevailed in the consumer industry. Enterprises are encouraging the public's low-carbon behavior by incorporating low-carbon ideas into their business operations, which accordingly brought in more profits. Governments are implementing low-carbon policies that are applicable in daily life to guide the public in making low-carbon choices. A governance mechanism on low-carbon transformation with diversified participants has been basically formed, and the role of environmental non-profit organizations has been further highlighted. Meanwhile, public involvement in low-carbon transformation in China is hindered by inadequate information about the strategy itself and related policies, as well as unaffordable prices. At present, efforts should be made to innovate policies and speed up the formation of internal driving forces for a low-carbon society. It is advised to keep the public well-informed, and carbon footprint of daily activities in particular should be calculated. Brand awareness of low-carbon products needs to be boosted so that there will be more low-carbon choices available for the public. The profit mechanism of the low-carbon industry needs to be analyzed and well-planned publicity events are needed to make the low-carbon policies well received. In addition, the price mechanism of the industry needs to be reformed so that the costs of low-carbon transformation can be reasonably shared.

Key words: low-carbon transformation, carbon peaking, carbon neutrality, public participation