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A multi-tiered approach based on “instrument-goal-intensity” framework for dual carbon target-oriented policies in China's construction Industry: Linking to low-carbon energy transition

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  • Liu, Hui
  • Zheng, Hanyu
  • Ju, Qianqian
  • Feng, Xiaoling

Abstract

Amid escalating climate challenges, the construction industry, which accounts for nearly 40 % of global energy-related carbon emissions, relies on effective policies to advance its low-carbon energy transition. However, research on dual carbon target-oriented policies in this industry remains fragmented, often focusing on isolated dimensions while lacking integration across the macro-meso-micro tiers, with limited explicit links to low-carbon energy transition. Accordingly, this study proposes a multi-tiered analytical approach built upon a three-dimensional “Instrument-Goal-Intensity” framework. Using China's construction industry as an empirical case,189 dual carbon target-oriented policies (September 2021–September 2024) are analyzed through a mixed-method strategy combining descriptive statistics, content analysis, and quantitative synergy measurement. Findings show strong temporal and spatial heterogeneity: policy issuance surged between the first quarter of 2022 to the second quarter of 2023 before stabilizing, with 51.7 % issued in the Eastern Region and only 20.8 % in the Western Region. Policy diffusion is mainly top-down, while bottom-up and horizontal initiatives remain limited. Policy imbalances persist, as supply-side instruments account for only 22.22 %, and ecological sustainability goals such as “green energy reuse” are underemphasized. Synergy among elements is generally weak, but two high-synergy configurations (“strategic measure-ecological sustainability goals-provincial-key policies” and “finance and taxation-economic driven goals-provincial-key policies”) demonstrate stronger support for low-carbon energy transition. This study advances integrated policy analysis by explicitly embedding low-carbon energy transition and enriching policy research methodologies. Practically, it also offers practical insights for Chinese policymakers and a replicable framework for other high-emission sectors pursuing low-carbon energy pathways.

Suggested Citation

  • Liu, Hui & Zheng, Hanyu & Ju, Qianqian & Feng, Xiaoling, 2026. "A multi-tiered approach based on “instrument-goal-intensity” framework for dual carbon target-oriented policies in China's construction Industry: Linking to low-carbon energy transition," Energy, Elsevier, vol. 344(C).
    • Handle: RePEc:eee:energy:v:344:y:2026:i:c:s0360544226002033
    DOI: 10.1016/j.energy.2026.140101
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    References listed on IDEAS

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