In July 2023, with the support of Energy Foundation China, the Integrated Transport Research Center of China at Beijing Jiaotong University released this research report discussing how to strike a balance between high-speed rail (HSR) and air transport that can help China achieve its dual goals for carbon peaking and neutrality early.

The report examines the supply and demand in China’s HSR and air passenger transport markets, analyzes the current flow of passengers, and predicts future changes in passenger transport volume. It also estimates carbon emission cuts of different market shares between HSR and air travel, and provides policy recommendations for optimizing the passenger transport structure.

Authors of the report hope it can help provide scientific evidence, as China tries to adjust its passenger transport structure, improve the share of high-speed rail, and cut carbon emissions in the transportation industry.