Sustainable Roadmap for China’s Low-Carbon Road Transportation: From Policy to Practice

The road transport sector in China is confronted with the dual challenges of escalating demand and the critical need to mitigate greenhouse gas emissions. This situation necessitates urgently formulating a precise and comprehensive low-carbon development framework congruent with the objectives outlined in the Paris Agreement. By synthesizing pertinent national and regional policies, this analysis underscores the pivotal role of governmental interventions in promoting innovation and facilitating investment in low-carbon technologies. We propose a series of strategic public interventions essential for transitioning to low-carbon transportation systems within the forthcoming five-year period. These are anticipated to effectively counterbalance the anticipated rise in carbon emissions triggered by increasing demand. Furthermore, the present analysis encompasses a comparative assessment of various transportation technologies' benefits, drawbacks, and obstacles. This assessment focuses mainly on the developmental maturity of these technologies and the low-carbon potential inherent in electric and fuel-cell vehicles. Ultimately, this study delineates a strategic roadmap for establishing a resilient low-carbon transport system, contributing to the broader discourse on sustainable transportation. It also provides actionable recommendations for policymakers and stakeholders dedicated to fostering a greener future.