An analysis of climate change policy‐making and implementation in China

Abstract

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to introduce and discuss policy making process in the field of climate change in China. It aims to describe the main climate change‐related policies and to discuss the role of China in international climate change negotiations.Design/methodology/approachA qualitative method has been used for this paper. A preliminary desk study based on the analysis of the primary and secondary sources published in both English and Chinese (Mandarin) has been conducted. Literature on policy analysis and evaluation and the role of political actors in it, as well as examples of energy efficiency studies in other countries has been studied to develop an analytical framework for the empirical data interpretation. The main sources for information about China's situation are books, articles, as well as internet resources and newspapers covering China's politics, the climate change regime, and Chinese climate policy.FindingsThe paper provides insights into China's climate change policy making process and outlines the main challenges that policy implementation in China is facing today.Research limitations/implicationsIt was appreciated that some sources should be used with caution as information given in Chinese is subject to censorship and governmental control in China and therefore may be biased. It is not possible to avoid this problem totally when dealing with a state like China, but using multiple sources and personal observation may improve the reliability of the information.Practical implicationsThe paper includes suggestions on policy improvements such as strengthening of supervision mechanisms and creating a Ministry of Energy.Originality/valueThis paper fulfils an identified need to study the climate change policy‐making process in China.