Abstract

In the context of escalating global climate change, the pharmaceutical industry, being energy-intensive and high-emitting, bears significant responsibility for low-carbon transformation. China’s “dual-carbon” goals further promote green and sustainable development in this sector. This study aims to explore the paths, challenges, and policy support for low-carbon transformation in China’s pharmaceutical industry. Through literature analysis, it systematically reviews the current status of carbon emissions, technological pathways, policy support, and challenges faced by the industry. The study finds that carbon emissions mainly originate from production processes, with notable regional variations and imperfections in monitoring and evaluation systems. Key pathways for promoting low-carbon transformation include green pharmaceutical technology, clean energy application, circular economy models, and digital technology. However, major obstacles remain, such as dual challenges of technology and cost, insufficient corporate transformation motivation, and supply chain coordination issues. Therefore, the study proposes policy recommendations including strengthening national policy support, improving financial mechanisms, and enhancing regulatory systems, while outlining future directions for technological innovation, international cooperation, and long-term strategic planning.

Keywords:Pharmaceutical industry; Low-Carbon transformation; Policy support