Chemical industry energy-saving emission reduction
The oil and chemical industry is a sector that plays a vital role in energy supply, raw material production, and industrial development. However, it is also known for its high energy consumption and significant environmental impact. According to data from the National Development and Reform Commission, there are 340 oil and chemical companies among the key energy-consuming enterprises, making up one-third of the total. Meanwhile, the Ministry of Ecology and Environment has identified 482 oil and chemical companies as key polluters for waste gas and wastewater emissions, accounting for 13.4% and 25.8% respectively. These figures highlight the critical challenge the industry faces in achieving energy conservation and emission reduction goals.
To meet national targets, the China Petroleum and Chemical Industry Association set specific objectives under the "Eleventh Five-Year Plan." By 2010, the energy consumption per 10,000 yuan of industrial added value was expected to drop by 15% to 20% compared to 2005 levels. Water consumption per unit of industrial output should decrease by 30%, with an industrial water recycling rate reaching 90% and solid waste utilization hitting 70%. Additionally, the discharge of major pollutants was to be reduced by 10%.
In response, the association launched six key measures: raising awareness of energy efficiency, optimizing industrial structure, promoting circular economy, advancing technological innovation, cultivating specialized talent, and establishing an evaluation system for energy-saving and emission reduction. In collaboration with the National Standards Committee, they also developed national energy consumption limits for four high-energy products—ammonia, caustic soda, calcium carbide, and yellow phosphorus—which took effect in June this year. These standards have raised industry entry thresholds, leading to the closure of many heavily polluting facilities.
Efforts have started to bear fruit, with energy consumption in key products like crude oil processing, caustic soda, and ammonia showing notable declines. However, challenges remain. High-energy, high-pollution production capacity continues to grow rapidly, and basic energy management systems are still underdeveloped. The promotion of energy-saving technologies also needs further improvement.
Looking ahead, the focus will be on restructuring the industry, reducing high-energy and high-pollution sectors through shutdowns, technological upgrades, and integration. New industries with low resource consumption and high technological value will be encouraged. Strengthening statistical systems, setting clear benchmarks, and accelerating technology adoption are also priorities.
Engineering design plays a crucial role in achieving energy efficiency, and the association has emphasized the need to integrate energy-saving concepts into project planning. A conference is scheduled for October to review progress, showcase new technologies, and promote further advancements.
Despite its environmental challenges, the chemical industry is not inherently harmful—it's the business approach that matters. With national policies pushing for sustainability and stricter regulations on polluting sectors, energy conservation and emission reduction have become even more essential. The domestic chemical industry is actively seeking ways to evolve and improve, ensuring long-term economic growth and industrial transformation.
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