Author(s)

Jifeng Li, Xue Han, Chenglong Zhang, Yingkang Lyu, Jinyu Chen

Corresponding Author

Jifeng Li

Abstract

Achieving China's carbon peaking and carbon neutrality goals requires a comprehensive and profound systemic transformation. The green and low-carbon transition of the industrial sector is an essential path to balance development and emission reduction, posing a significant challenge. Research indicates that since the 11th Five-Year Plan period, China has placed great emphasis on industrial energy conservation. Through optimizing industrial structures, setting technical standards, and implementing a series of policies and actions, significant achievements in energy conservation have been realized. The carbon intensity of major energy-intensive industries has shown a continuous downward trend. To meet the requirements of carbon peaking and carbon neutrality, it is necessary to systematically promote the low-carbon transition on the foundation of industrial energy conservation. Based on existing studies, it is evident that major energy-intensive industries in China must adopt a combination of structural optimization, advancements in energy-saving technologies, recycling, and energy decarbonization measures to effectively support the national carbon peaking goals. However, the low-carbon transition in the industrial sector currently faces challenges such as relatively weak material and process foundations, the misalignment of mainstream business models with low-carbon requirements, technological innovation bottlenecks, low consumer awareness of sustainable consumption, and significant pressure for a just transition. Accordingly, the preliminary policy framework for China's industrial low-carbon transition needs to be more targeted and synergized.

Keywords

Industry, Carbon emissions, Energy, Low-carbon transition, Achievements, Goals