Empirical Analysis and Research of Low-Carbon Economy Development Trends in China, Japan and South Korea

Carbon emission intensity, being one of the key indicators of the level of economic development and environmental protection in a particular territory, indicates the quantity of carbon dioxide emitted per unit of GDP. Reducing carbon emission intensity is essential for nations like China (PRC), Japan, and South Korea (ROK) to meet low-carbon policy objectives, which is reflected in the strategic plans of these states. A number of variables (energy structure, industrial structure, technological level and manufacturing techniques) have an impact on the intensity of carbon emissions. Basing on the statistics of the PRC, Japan and the ROK for the period 2011–2020 (pre-epidemic period), the authors carry out a regression analysis of the correlation between the factors influencing the low-carbon economies of the three countries. Taking into account the results obtained, the authors propose a list of policies and measures to enhance the development of low-carbon economies in China, Japan and South Korea.