Energy consumption per unit of GDP fell by 3.4% in the first half of the year

Abstract According to the National Development and Reform Commission, this year, multiple regions and government departments have implemented a variety of policy measures aimed at advancing energy conservation, emission reduction, and promoting sustainable, low-carbon development. In the first half of the year, energy consumption per unit of GDP decreased by 3.4%, while emissions of chemical oxygen demand, sulfur dioxide, ammonia nitrogen, and nitrogen oxides continued to decline year-on-year. The commission is set to release the results of the 2012 energy-saving performance evaluation for provincial governments, with a focus on applying these findings effectively. It will also accelerate the phase-out of outdated production capacities, strictly regulate new projects, and manage the rapid growth of high-energy industries. In addition, the National Development and Reform Commission will enhance macro-level guidance and monitoring of energy conservation and emission reduction efforts. It plans to issue regular reports on the progress of energy-saving targets across different regions, providing a clear barometer for policy implementation. Regarding environmental pollution control, the focus will be on addressing key issues such as air quality, water contamination, and heavy metal pollution, which directly impact public health. In response to severe air pollution, especially smog, the State Council has introduced ten key measures. These include adjusting industrial and energy structures, promoting cleaner production, enhancing regional cooperation, increasing pollution control efforts, improving regulatory standards, and strengthening both incentives and penalties. The plan also emphasizes assigning clear responsibilities, improving oversight, and encouraging public participation to combat air pollution effectively. To tackle smog, the core strategy revolves around four main actions: "reducing coal," "increasing gas," "controlling vehicles," and "enhancing regulation." "Reducing coal" involves decreasing coal usage and promoting the use of cleaner coal technologies. "Increasing gas" means boosting the supply of clean energy sources like natural gas and coal-to-methane. "Controlling vehicles" refers to phasing out old and high-emission vehicles and improving fuel quality. Finally, "enhancing regulation" focuses on stricter enforcement against illegal waste discharges to ensure compliance with environmental standards. These combined efforts aim to create a healthier and more sustainable environment for future generations.