Quick Look:
China's GDP is currently 8.227 trillion USD, making it the second largest one-country economy in the world.
However China ranks 88th in GDP per capita
China's GDP per capita is a mere 5,400 USD
vs.
United States' GDP per capita of 48,000 USD
This is due to China's sizable population (~1.3 billion)
China's GDP per capita is a mere 5,400 USD
vs.
United States' GDP per capita of 48,000 USD
This is due to China's sizable population (~1.3 billion)
What does this mean for sustainability?
Do you see a problem with these graphs? You should.
China is putting out approximately double the emissions per unit of wealth compared to both the US and the EU.
This means that:
For every $5,400 USD GDP that China gains, it emits 2 times the CO2 that the US emits per $48,000 USD GDP
This means that:
For every $5,400 USD GDP that China gains, it emits 2 times the CO2 that the US emits per $48,000 USD GDP
Basically, production and consumption are much more environmentally costly in China than in the US or EU.
Looking further...
Goldman Sachs on China's SustainabilityA brief, but holistic view of China's growth in the context of environmental sustainability. Goldman Sachs is optimistic about the existence of a balance between economic growth and environmental sustainability in the future.
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Some key recommendations for sustainable economic growth:
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