The future of carbon-neutrality science and technology from an industrial transformation perspective: an interview with Hou-Liang Dai

Since China announced that it will strive to achieve its carbon peak by 2030 and carbon neutrality by 2060, it has determined to take steps, which will establish low carbon development and a transition to carbon neutrality, as part of its long-term strategy for sustainable development and prosperity. This will be both a huge challenge and an opportunity. To achieve the dual-carbon goals, the whole society must undergo a broad and profound systemic transformation, involving changes in energy, technology, economy, industry and lifestyle, etc. Carbon-neutrality science and technology should be the foundation of the transformation. Now, dual-carbon goals have become the focus, not just of scientific and technological circles [1], but of all society. Some Chinese scientists have put forward the concept of green carbon science (GCS) to promote rational and systematic scientific thinking on carbon science and sustainable development [2,3]. Additionally, hundreds of scientists and senior experts have participated in formulating the action plan and guiding the outline of basic research on the dual-carbon strategy and pathways, helping the country to formulate a timetable, roadmap and implementation plan for achieving carbon-peaking and carbon-neutralization goals in industries [4,5]. Among them, Hou-Liang Dai, an academician of the Chinese Academy of Engineering (CAE), took part in a major consulting project of the CAE. He is famous for the development and application of highly efficient and environmentally friendly aromatic hydrocarbon technology and also a leader in high-quality development of the petrochemical industry [6]. He has been working in the petroleum and chemical industry for almost 40 years. Currently, he is the chairman of the China National Petroleum Corporation (CNPC). NSR spoke to Hou-Liang Dai on the future of carbon-neutrality science and technology.