By LI Linxu

In its latest decarbonization push, China announced the Comprehensive Work Plan for Energy Conservation and Emission Reduction During the 14th Five-Year Plan Period (2021–2025) on January 24. The plan, released by the State Council, outlines key targets and measures to advance the country's green transformation.

▲ A smart fast-charging station for new energy vehicles. (PHOTO: XINHUA)

By 2025, China aims to reduce energy consumption per unit of GDP by 13.5% compared to 2020 levels, while keeping total energy consumption under reasonable control. The plan sets ambitious emission reduction targets: an 8% cut in chemical oxygen demand and ammoniacal nitrogen emissions, and over 10% reductions in nitrogen oxides and volatile organic compounds.

To achieve these goals, the plan identifies 10 major initiatives, including green upgrades in key industries, eco-improvements in industrial parks, urban energy conservation retrofits, pollutant reduction in key regions, and enhanced environmental infrastructure.

The green upgrade project will focus on high-energy-consuming sectors such as iron and steel, nonferrous metals, building materials, and petrochemicals. By 2025, at least 530 million tons of iron and steel production capacity must complete ultra-low emission transformations. Additionally, at least 30% of production capacity in industries like iron and steel, electrolytic aluminum, cement, and flat glass must meet national energy efficiency benchmarks through conservation and carbon reduction efforts.

In transportation and logistics, the plan promotes a shift toward low-carbon models. New energy vehicle sales are expected to account for 20% of total new car sales by 2025. Rail and waterway freight volumes will also be increased to optimize transport structure.

Coal use efficiency remains a priority. During the 14th Five-Year Plan period, coal consumption in the Beijing-Tianjin-Hebei region is targeted to drop by 10%, and by 5% in the Yangtze River Delta region.

A recent group study session of the Political Bureau of the CPC Central Committee emphasized coordinated efforts to reduce emissions, curb pollution, expand green development, and support economic growth, highlighting that green transition and economic development should reinforce each other.

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Editor | SONG Ziyan

Supervisor| TIAN Xueke