Carbon Peak and Carbon Neutrality: A Consumption Dimension

Xia Guang*

Ministry of Ecology and Environment, Beijing, China

Abstract: China’s manufacturing sector is on the move towards carbon peak and carbon neutrality, but carbon-neutral consumption has yet to take off. As the external constraints to consumption behaviors, carbon peak and carbon neutrality (CPCN) commitments will transform energy-dependent modern lifestyle and excessive material consumption and encourage circular and sustainable consumption. According to international experience, low-carbon consumption can be achieved primarily by reducing per capita household and office carbon emissions and encouraging e-mobility, low-carbon mobility, recycling and circular economy. In promoting green and low-carbon consumption, China should focus on eight areas, including food, clothing, transportation, housing, consumer goods and energy. Among them, a priority is to prevent food waste and establish a new food culture. Food waste stems from various reasons, such as communal dining, the profit-driven business practices of catering companies, the influence of traditional dining culture, and dining on public funds. We suggest conducting special research and pilot programs on green and low-carbon dining consumption, involving the masses, and exploring ways for the implementation of the Anti-Food Waste Law.

Keywords: Carbon peak and carbon neutrality (CPCN) initiatives, green and low-carbon, consumption mode, food waste

JEL Classification Code: P36, Q59

DOI: 10.19602/j.chinaeconomist.2022.03.05