Adjusting Industrial Structure and Reducing Carbon Emission Intensity: International Comparison and Experience Enlightenment

Abstract

Developed countries have reduced their carbon emission intensity by adjusting industrial structure, which is an important reference for China to achieve carbon peak and carbon neutralization. In this article, we analyze the changes of total carbon emission, carbon emission per capita, carbon emission intensity, and industrial structure in major developed countries, thus to obtain their experience regarding adjusting industrial structure and reducing carbon emission intensity. Developed countries have generally decoupled economic growth and carbon emissions since 1965 via industrial transfer, scientific and technological innovation, and service industry upgrading; however, a manufacturing hollowing problem emerged. Considering the unfinished industrialization process in China and the large proportion of high energy-consuming industries, we suggest that China cultivates emerging industries and develops digital economy to optimize and upgrade its industrial structure. Additionally, it should further strengthen the manufacturing industry and coordinate industrial transfer in China and abroad while ensuring the security of industrial and supply chains, thereby optimizing the spatial layout of industries and forming a new development pattern.

Keywords

• industrial structure, carbon emission intensity, carbon emissions per capita, international comparison, decoupling