Case study on carbon emission of a traditional Chinese medicine pharmaceutical enterprise toward carbon neutrality

Abstract

Against the backdrop of carbon peaking and carbon neutrality, traditional Chinese medicine pharmaceutical enterprises (TCMPE) with high energy consumption are facing a significant challenge in reducing carbon emissions. It is of great significance to conduct detailed carbon emission accounting and develop corresponding emission reduction strategies for TCMPE. This study investigated the calculation of carbon emissions from TCMPE, with a case study focusing on the Shangyao Xingling (SYXL) Qingpu Pharmaceutical Base in Shanghai, China. Furthermore, the accounting of carbon emissions within its operational boundaries was conducted. The results indicated that the carbon emissions of the SYXL primarily stemmed from indirect emissions resulting from purchased electricity and heat, accounting for 80.7%. Meanwhile, sewage treatment also generated significant carbon emissions. Gray carbon, blue carbon, and red carbon were used to represent various types of carbon emissions, corresponding to different emission reduction concepts. Energy conservation, efficiency improvement, and the development of renewable energy will be crucial for TCMPE to achieve carbon neutrality. At the same time, some carbon offsets will also be required. Furthermore, the existing issues with the current accounting system were discussed, and pertinent suggestions were proposed.