“Dual control of carbon” is a replacement system for “dual control of energy” that shifts away from energy intensity and energy consumption. Instead, it focuses on carbon intensity and total carbon emissions. The system was established in 2024. Under this system, China will initially focus on reducing carbon intensity, with a secondary focus on total CO2 emissions. After 2030 – before which China has pledged to reach its carbon peak – a binding cap for total CO2 emissions will be set and will become the main target, while carbon intensity will be the secondary target. (Read more about the “dual-control” system in this edition of China Briefing.)