2024-12-17
In September 2024, CRAES and WSSO signed a cooperation agreement to jointly develop six international standards promoting global sustainable development, covering natural capital assessment, pollutant reduction, and carbon neutrality in industries.
On September 9, 2024, the Chinese Academy of Environmental Sciences (CRAES) and the World Sustainability Standard Organization (WSSO) officially signed a strategic cooperation agreement. According to the cooperation plan, the two parties agreed to jointly initiate six new standards, with project approval completed under WSSO. CRAES designated the Environmental Standards Institute of the Ministry of Ecology and Environment (ESI, MEE) to undertake the specific implementation and technical drafting work. These six standards will serve as the first batch of international standards released by WSSO, aimed at promoting global sustainable development practices.
· WSSO Technical Guidelines for Natural Capital Assessment
· WSSO Guidelines for Pollutant Reduction Management in the Cement Industry
· WSSO Guidelines for Pollutant Reduction Management in the Coking Chemical Industry
· WSSO Guidelines for Pollutant Reduction Management in the Steel Industry
· WSSO Guidelines for Pollutant Reduction Management in the Lead Zinc Industry
· WSSO Guidelines for Evaluation of the Carbon Neutrality Achievement Level in the Coking Chemical Industry
The Environmental Standards Institute, as a core technical support institution for China’s national ecological and environmental standards, has provided critical assurance for the scientific and practical application of these standards. This includes technical research, system maintenance, and implementation guidance. Its expertise and technical support have been key to advancing the high-quality development of WSSO-related standards.
These six standards embody the concept of integrating natural resources and industrial development. They cover essential aspects ranging from natural capital assessment to pollution reduction and carbon neutrality in industrial sectors. Furthermore, they align with international sustainable development trends and practical needs, focusing on the scientific management of natural resources while providing clear guidance for the green transformation of traditional industries.
As the primary initiator of these standards, WSSO will adhere to a rigorous and meticulous standard-setting process, including project approval, drafting, public consultation, expert review, and final publication. These six new standards will offer actionable principles and credible guidance for businesses in the relevant sectors, contributing to the synchronization and integration of global standards while providing essential principles and direction for sustainable development practices.
Through the formulation of sustainable development standards for these industries, both parties aim to advance global sustainable development, promote the concept of “lucid waters and lush mountains are invaluable assets,” steadfastly implement the national strategy of actively addressing climate change, pursue a path of green and low-carbon development, and foster the building of a shared future for humanity.
