Assessing Low-Carbon Progress in Regional China

This book presents a comprehensive evaluation of green and low-carbon development in Anhui Province, China, through the construction of the Green and Low-Carbon Development Index (GLCDI). By integrating five sub-dimensions—green ecology, green industry, green lifestyle, environmental governance, and policy protection—with 29 secondary indicators, it offers a scientific framework to assess ecological capacity and development potential at both provincial and municipal levels. What distinguishes this approach is its combination of quantitative analysis (using the entropy method and coupling coordination models) and in-depth case studies of key industries such as manufacturing, construction, and tourism, which reveal spatial-temporal disparities and driving factors of green development. The content spans policy background, index construction, empirical analysis, and policy recommendations, with a focus on balancing economic growth and ecological sustainability. Intended for researchers, policymakers, and students in environmental science, regional development, and sustainable economics, the book provides actionable insights for green industrial transformation, ecological protection, and policy optimization. Its key strengths lie in the GLCDI’s scalability for national application, detailed industry-specific analyses, and targeted strategies to address regional imbalances, making it a valuable resource for advancing low-carbon development in China and beyond.