Achieving the “Double-Carbon” Goals in China-How May Research on Consumer Food Preferences Help?

Abstract

Abstract: China announced the “Double Carbon” goals in 2020, aiming to achieve “Carbon Peaking” by 2030 and “Carbon Neutrality” by 2060. Achieving these grand goals demands substantial changes in China’s industrial system, the food industry included. Regarding the information needed to formulate viable plans and policies at the industrial level to help achieve the double-carbon goals, this article argues that research on the consumption side of the food industry can be instrumental in informing industrial policy compatible with these goals. Specifically, our discussion revolves around four questions. Why expect the food industry to play a significant role in achieving the double-carbon goals? Why are consumers’ food preferences key to the design of viable policy? What aspects of consumer preferences should be studied? Finally, how may findings from such research be incorporated into food policy?