Source: People’s Daily Online
Xining, the capital of Qinghai Province, has become the first city in Northwest China to roll out a comprehensive zero-carbon scenario pilot program. The move is part of the city's broader push to support China’s national “dual carbon” goals of peaking carbon emissions and achieving carbon neutrality.
The newly released Implementation Plan for Zero-Carbon Scenario Demonstration in Xining outlines five focus areas for the pilot: industrial parks, factories, public institutions, tourist attractions, and buildings. The goal is to develop replicable and scalable models that can inform low-carbon development efforts in other highland cities and beyond.
“As a major urban center on the Qinghai-Tibet Plateau, Xining is taking the lead in implementing practical strategies under the dual carbon agenda,” said Li Huaiyu, Project Director at the China Quality Certification Center. “This initiative is not only a first for the region, but also a meaningful step toward lowering emissions in plateau cities. It sends a strong signal for broader public participation in building a greener Xining.”
The pilot areas were selected based on local conditions, including carbon intensity, infrastructure readiness, and social influence. “After thorough research, we identified five key areas where zero-carbon demonstration would have the greatest impact,” said Han Xiaoli, Director of Environmental Resources at the Xining Development and Reform Commission.
Industrial parks and enterprises—responsible for more than 80% of the city’s total carbon emissions—are a central focus. Key zones such as Ganhe, Dongchuan, and Nanchuan are expected to play a pivotal role in transitioning from carbon peaking to neutrality. Public institutions, which have already adopted initiatives like energy-saving offices and zero-waste programs, offer a solid base for further carbon reduction. Tourist destinations and commercial buildings—due to their broad exposure to the public—will serve as platforms to engage citizens in sustainable practices.
The plan covers a three-year period from 2025 to 2027. By the end of 2025, Xining aims to establish a full-cycle management framework and launch 1 to 3 demonstration projects in each district or department. From 2026 onward, the city will expand and deepen the initiative, with a target of building 10 to 20 fully operational zero-carbon demonstration zones within three years.
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