Environmental impact analysis and low-carbon transition strategies for the coal chemical industry in the yellow river basin

The development of the coal chemical industry has led to excessive water consumption, significant waste emissions, and a surge in greenhouse gases, posing severe challenges to China's green and low-carbon transition. Addressing these issues in the Yellow River Basin is critical for overcoming environmental constraints and fostering sustainable industrial growth. Key strategies for pollution and carbon reduction in upstream coal mining include advanced mine water and coal gangue management. For the coal chemical sector, solutions involve zero-emission wastewater technologies, stricter exhaust and VOC controls, CO 2 mitigation in coal combustion, modern carbon-based chemical industry development, and large-scale solid waste utilization. Additionally, integrating carbon reduction with green production and resource efficiency is essential. Strategic measures for ecological protection and high-quality development emphasize water conservation, intensive resource use, and ecological restoration. Establishing a collaborative basin-wide management system, innovating cross-regional coordination and compensation mechanisms, and formulating green industrial policies are vital for systemic progress. Findings indicate that implementing these measures can significantly reduce the environmental footprint of the coal chemical industry while maintaining economic viability. For instance, zero-emission wastewater systems and CO 2 capture technologies show high potential in curbing pollution and emissions. Moreover, basin-wide governance frameworks enhance policy coherence and enforcement. The study concludes that a multi-pronged approach-combining technological innovation, regulatory strengthening, and regional cooperation-is indispensable for achieving sustainable, low-carbon growth in the Yellow River Basin's coal chemical sector, aligning with China's dual-carbon goals and ecological civilization objectives.