Pollution is the price of growth in China

China’s economic growth will continue to be fast—and dirty.

A recent study published in the International Journal of Global Energy Issues shows that China's rapid economic growth will result in higher carbon emissions from increased pollution and energy expenditure.

Data spanning over a decade from 30 Chinese provinces were used to build a comprehensive model of pollution, energy consumption and economic growth in China. While the model gives a positive view of China’s growth, it gives a miserable look over the medium-term view regarding lack of sustainability and environmental targets.

The fault lies in China concentrating on the development of manufacturing and heavy industries that resulted in the massive energy consumption fed mostly by coal-fired power plants. The resulting pollution and carbon emissions are harming the environment on a global scale.