Optimizing carbon emission paths based on equity: Strategies for promoting coordinated regional development in China

Publikation: Beitrag in FachzeitschriftForschungsartikelBeigetragenBegutachtung

Beitragende

  • Yan Bu - , Harbin Engineering University (Autor:in)
  • Bole Zhang - , Harbin Engineering University (Autor:in)
  • Jinhong Bai - , Central South University (Autor:in)
  • Xun Zhang - , Harbin Engineering University (Autor:in)
  • Ziyu Jiang - , Harbin Engineering University (Autor:in)
  • Mingye Ai - , Harbin Engineering University (Autor:in)
  • Dominik Möst - , Professur für Betriebswirtschaftslehre, insbesondere Energiewirtschaft (Autor:in)

Abstract

China's climate actions through energy transition have exacerbated regional disparities in the energy-economy-environment (3E) system. This study introduces regional equity metrics (Gini coefficient and Theil index) into the 3E framework, establishing a multi-objective optimization model to coordinate carbon reduction and regional development during 2021–2030. Four strategies were developed with key findings: All scenarios reduce regional inequality, with economic output Gini coefficient declining by 8.73–9.52 %, energy intensity Gini by 28.35–44.2 %, and carbon intensity Gini by 8.77–14.54 %, while achieving carbon peaking. China requires 5.1 % annual GDP growth with provincial target adjustments. Spatial analysis identifies critical provinces for energy transition (Beijing, Shanghai, Liaoning, Hebei, Shanxi, Inner Mongolia) and carbon mitigation (Jiangsu, Shandong, Guangdong, Hebei, Shanxi, Henan), revealing their disproportional impacts on national targets. The comprehensive strategy proves most cost-effective, reducing emissions at 144.91 yuan/ton while generating 104.59 trillion yuan GDP (2005 prices). Its provincial quota allocation mechanism optimally balances equity and efficiency. This study provides a replicable framework for reconciling climate targets with regional equity, offering critical insights for China's coordinated transition.

Details

OriginalspracheEnglisch
Aufsatznummer101411
FachzeitschriftSustainable Futures
Jahrgang10
PublikationsstatusVeröffentlicht - Dez. 2025
Peer-Review-StatusJa

Externe IDs

ORCID /0000-0001-7170-3596/work/196677576

Schlagworte

Schlagwörter

  • Carbon emission reduction, China, Energy-economy-environment system, Multi-objective optimization model, Regional coordinated development, Regional inequality