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Carbon allowance auction design of China's ETS: A comprehensive hierarchical system based on blockchain

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  • Chen, Xun-Qi
  • Ma, Chao-Qun
  • Ren, Yi-Shuai
  • Lei, Yu-Tian

Abstract

This study proposes a blockchain-based optimization framework for carbon allowance allocation auctions. First, the study assesses the status quo of carbon trading, pinpointing barriers, future development trends, and identifying carbon quota auction standards and methods pertinent to the Chinese context. Second, based on China's carbon market needs and the technical characteristics of blockchain, this study reconfigures the functions and responsibilities of each participant and creates a framework for a carbon allowance auction system to optimize the carbon trading process. Third, an algorithm for the carbon allowance auction system is constructed, and the corresponding smart contract is created and simulated. The results illustrate that our proposed system framework facilitates universal carbon allowance auctions, efficiently addresses potential disputes during the auction process, enhances market transparency and credibility, and offers comprehensive privacy protection with flexible information disclosure options for corporations. Blockchain's role in fostering paid distribution and incentivizing participation in the carbon market is further recognized. A blockchain-based carbon trading system safeguards transaction security and efficiency, maintains precise transaction records, and provides automated settlement. Ultimately, this paper presents policy suggestions for the development of a national carbon market in China.

Suggested Citation

  • Chen, Xun-Qi & Ma, Chao-Qun & Ren, Yi-Shuai & Lei, Yu-Tian, 2023. "Carbon allowance auction design of China's ETS: A comprehensive hierarchical system based on blockchain," International Review of Economics & Finance, Elsevier, vol. 88(C), pages 1003-1019.
    • Handle: RePEc:eee:reveco:v:88:y:2023:i:c:p:1003-1019
    DOI: 10.1016/j.iref.2023.07.053
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    3. Ren, Yi-Shuai & Huynh, Toan Luu Duc & Liu, Pei-Zhi & Narayan, Seema, 2024. "Is the carbon emission trading scheme conducive to promoting energy transition? Some empirical evidence from China," Energy Economics, Elsevier, vol. 134(C).
    4. Su, Xiaomei & Razi, Ummara & Zhao, Shangmei & Li, Wei & Gu, Xiao & Yan, Jiale, 2025. "Geopolitical risk and energy markets in China," International Review of Financial Analysis, Elsevier, vol. 103(C).
    5. Yunning, Ma & Wang, Shuo & Zhang, Ning & Choi, Yongrok, 2025. "Does China's carbon emission trading scheme policy exacerbate financing costs for enterprises?," Energy Economics, Elsevier, vol. 149(C).
    6. Alnafrah, Ibrahim, 2025. "Evaluating efficiency of green innovations and renewables for sustainability goals," Renewable and Sustainable Energy Reviews, Elsevier, vol. 209(C).
    7. Su, Chi-Wei & Yang, Shengyao & Ren, Yi-Shuai, 2024. "Economic policy uncertainty and company stock prices: Empirical evidence from blockchain companies," Finance Research Letters, Elsevier, vol. 65(C).
    8. Ren, Yi-Shuai & Derouiche, Imen & Hassan, Majdi & Liu, Pei-Zhi, 2024. "Do creditors price climate transition risks? A natural experiment based on China's carbon emission trading scheme," International Review of Economics & Finance, Elsevier, vol. 91(C), pages 138-155.

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