Editorial: Urban carbon emissions and anthropogenic activities

The following ten scientific articles have provided robust, data-driven insights into how China can achieve its “dual carbon” goals (carbon peak and neutrality). They highlight that: • Digital infrastructure, green innovation, and policy experimentation are critical drivers. • Policies must be regionally differentiated and technology-driven. • Effective climate action depends on multi-level coordination, integrating local, regional, and national strategies. In summary, these studies suggest that China’s environmental transition must be smart, digital, inclusive, and tailored to local contexts, leveraging both market-based tools and technological advancement to build a sustainable future.