China Aims to Align Carbon Footprint Standards with International Norms

A newly released document outlines China's initiative to align its carbon footprint accounting standards with international practices as part of its broader carbon footprint management system. This guidance was jointly issued by multiple national agencies, including the Ministry of Ecology and Environment and the National Bureau of Statistics, emphasizing the importance of aligning domestic standards with those of major global economies and organizations in order to facilitate technical exchanges.

The guidelines also encourage the adaptation of relevant international standards to better fit China’s national context. Institutions responsible for developing accounting standards for essential energy sources, raw materials, and key export products will be urged to conduct analyses that compare domestic and international carbon footprint accounting methodologies and data.

Moreover, China aims to take an active role in the formation of international carbon footprint standards. The plan highlights the importance of involving associations, businesses, and research institutions in global standardization efforts. These entities will be motivated to engage with organizations like the International Organization for Standardization, the International Electrotechnical Commission, and the International Telecommunication Union to revise and establish international carbon footprint measurement standards.

In addition to this engagement, China will seek to promote the international adoption of its product carbon footprint accounting standards through enhanced dialogue with various international bodies, including the World Trade Organization, and countries participating in initiatives such as the Belt and Road and BRICS.