Insight into Policy Structure and Key Characteristics of China’s Low-Carbon Policy System: Based on Text Mining Method

Abstract

Developing a comprehensive low-carbon policy system is essential for China to achieve both the “carbon peak” and “carbon neutrality” milestones, significantly contributing to sustainable development. However, research on low-carbon policy predominantly emphasizes policy tools, implementation paths, and implementation effects, neglecting the comprehensive analysis of the systemic structure and evolutionary traits of such policy frameworks. To address the above problems, this study elucidates the structure, evolutionary stages, and key characteristics of low-carbon policies issued from 2007 to 2022 through text mining methods. Results show that: (1) China’s low-carbon policies progress through three distinct stages: initial exploration stage (2007–2015), accelerated advancement stage (2016–2019), and comprehensive implementation stage (2020–2022). (2) China’s “1 + N” policy system covers a broad spectrum of sectors, including energy, industry, construction, transportation, and finance, ensuring comprehensive coverage across various domains of policy. (3) The policy spotlight has progressively shifted from environmental protection to low-carbon development, emphasizing carbon market construction and innovative development. According to the key findings, this study provides recommendations that encompass crucial aspects such as accelerating technological innovation, strengthening carbon market mechanisms, and promoting green finance. Overall, the textual analysis of the low-carbon policy system in this study underscores the significance of policy structural coordination and evolution, offering insights for shaping China’s future roadmap in advancing low-carbon objectives.