Policy Library

Improving building energy efficiency by 2015 could cut China’s energy use by 170 billion kWh and reduce CO2 emissions by 170 million tonnes annually. In this report, the authors set out the case for improving building efficiency, including estimated potentials of benefits. They also identify the key stakeholder groups in China and suggest actions for each group.

To avoid the worst consequences of global warming, the world must limit average temperature increases to 2°C or less by reducing carbon emissions at least 50 percent below 1990 levels by the year 2050.1 Since the publication of the IPCC’s last synthesis report, several recent studies have further found that the committed warming as of today will exceed 2°C, even if emissions were to stop completely.2 Achieving the urgently needed emission reductions will require efforts beyond first-resort measures such as energy efficiency, conservation, and enhancement of natural carbon sinks. Given the world’s current heavy reliance on fossil fuels, nations must pursue a wide range of carbon mitigation strategies that includes Carbon Capture and Sequestration (CCS). China is well-positioned
to be a global leader in the development and deployment of CCS technologies that—with broad support and engagement from the international community— can be an important tool for reducing carbon emissions as the world transitions to truly clean energy technologies.

China and the United States are the world’s largest emitters of global warming pollution. As both nations face ever-growing energy service needs and an increasing dependence on foreign oil, their joint leadership is crucial to addressing global climate change and moving the world to a clean energy economy. With global warming already taking a toll on China’s agricultural production, water supplies, and coastal cities, a major shift in energy patterns is urgently needed. The country is already moving to take advantage of its manufacturing prowess to retool itself as a leader in the clean energy technologies of the future: wind and solar; advanced coal technology; electric vehicles, advanced batteries, and high-speed rail; smart grid technology; and more energy-efficient lighting and appliances.

In an age of global commerce and communications, informed citizens and motivated corporations can press for environmental improvements in China.

NRDC is promoting smart growth principles in urban planning and green building designs and construction to foster sustainable city development strategies in China.

NRDC is working with China to reduce this reliance on coal -- and cut down on coal's accompanying health and safety hazards -- by aggressively targeting energy efficiency and renewable energy goals, and promoting coal gasification with carbon capture and storage.

Attorney Alex Wang talks about what it's like to be in on the ground level of a new environmental movement.

This December 2007 issue paper provides a comprehensive set of recommendations for balancing the needs of the economy, the environment, and the community through the implementation of smart growth strategies that promote more efficient use of land, services, and resources.