Study Visit to Sweden and Denmark
EU-China Think Tank Exchange on Green Governance

As part of the EU-funded project “EU-China Think Tank Engagement on Green Governance,” a delegation of representatives from four Chinese think tanks recently visited Sweden and Denmark for an intensive exchange on climate policy, green governance, and the energy transition.

Discussions in Copenhagen

The study visit provided an opportunity to discuss current approaches to decarbonisation and to examine practical examples from Northern Europe that may also offer relevant insights for China. In both countries, participants engaged with experts and stakeholders on policy instruments, governance models, and the challenges of implementing climate targets in practice.

A particular focus of the program was Denmark’s pioneering approach to reducing emissions from agriculture. Denmark is the first country in the world to adopt a tax on agricultural emissions, developed through a participatory process involving relevant stakeholders. The Danish example offered valuable insights into how ambitious climate policy can be designed in a sector where emissions reductions remain particularly difficult.

Experience participatory civic engagement

Agriculture is among the sectors in which progress on emissions reduction has been slowest, despite its importance for achieving national and international climate targets. The discussions therefore highlighted the need for evidence-based policymaking, stakeholder participation, and international exchange.

Exchange at the think tank CONCITO in Copenhagen on levies on agricultural emissions

The visit to Sweden and Denmark underlined the importance of continued dialogue between European and Chinese think tanks on green governance. By exchanging experiences and policy approaches, the project contributes to a deeper mutual understanding of the opportunities and challenges involved in advancing the green transition.