The governance framework for renewable energy and the building sector in China

Renewable energy and building in the People's Republic of China are (besides the transport sector) two of the most challenging areas when it comes to sustainable development yet among the strongest prospects of establishing synergies in total green house gas emission reduction.However any kind of development or advancement in those sectors can only take place within the political and legal governance framework of the People's Republic of China.Any such governance framework naturally does offer incentives and also poses challenges to local and national initiatives and sustainability as a sum of all industrious activities.Undoubtedly it is the Government's goal to develop a world-class renewable energy industry.Likewise building and construction may well serve as tools for promoting and mainstreaming sustainability and sustainable use of energy.However in China governance is understood strictly in a top down manner.It is time to empower the energy and building sectors and normal citizens alike to take the lead in preserving and creating a healthy living environment in the People's Republic of China.For sustainable housing and renewable energy integration,decisive strategic policy support from the central and local governments is essential.