China Unveils Plan for Green Transition by 2035

China has unveiled ambitious new guidelines to accelerate its green transition across economic and social sectors. The Communist Party of China Central Committee and the State Council have set forth a comprehensive plan aimed at establishing a green, low-carbon, and circular economic system by 2035, aligning with the country's Beautiful China goal.

A key feature of the guidelines is the proposal to develop world-class green and low-carbon industrial clusters in the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area and the Yangtze River Delta region. These economic powerhouses are expected to build on their existing strengths in energy-saving, environmental protection, new energy vehicles, and clean energy industries.

The plan emphasizes the integration of digital technologies such as artificial intelligence, big data, cloud computing, and the Industrial Internet into various sectors including power systems, industrial and agricultural production, transportation, and construction. This digital empowerment is seen as crucial for achieving a green transition.

Additionally, the guidelines outline systematic plans to promote green consumption, a first for the country. This includes improving government procurement policies to favor green products, encouraging trade-in programs, and boosting sales of eco-friendly goods. On the supply side, industries are urged to adopt green practices throughout their operations, from design and manufacturing to packaging and logistics.

The government also plans to enhance the certification and labeling system for green products, aiming to provide consumers with clearer information about sustainable choices.

Liu Qiong, director of the National Energy Conservation Center, highlighted the importance of these measures, noting that the green transformation of consumption requires coordination across various stages, from production to end-use.