Quantitative research on the text of the dual carbon policy system—A three-dimensional analysis framework

Abstract

In 2020, China proposed the goal of reaching carbon peaking and achieving carbon neutrality. The realization of dual-carbon goals necessitates the support of policies. This study constructs a three-dimensional analytical framework encompassing policy objectives, policy instruments, and policy effectiveness to elucidate the internal logic and implementation outcomes of dual-carbon policies from multiple perspectives. This analysis, on the one hand, provides a clear understanding of the current application status and characteristics of various dual-carbon policy instruments, and on the other hand, it identifies the strengths and weaknesses of these policies. Consequently, this research offers valuable insights into future policy formulation and implementation. The findings reveal discrepancies between central and local governments concerning the priorities of policy objective execution, with the national level allocating relatively less attention to areas like green finance and carbon sequestration. Additionally, the distribution of policy instruments is uneven, with an over-reliance on environmental policy instruments and under-utilization of supply-side and demand-side policy instruments. It performs well in terms of policy timeliness and the use of policy instruments, but it scores poorly in terms of 1 + N policy. At the same time, there is a significant gap in PMC scores among regions. In response to the existing issues, this study proposes several measures aimed at advancing the achievement of dual-carbon targets. These include enhancing the formulation and implementation of policy documents pertaining to green finance and carbon sequestration, optimizing the structure of policy instruments, and refining the “1 + N” policy framework.