Investment Rating - The report maintains a "Buy" rating for the companies involved in the environmental protection industry, particularly highlighting the strategic moves of specific firms like High Energy Environment and Longjing Environmental Protection [1][16][21]. Core Views - The report emphasizes the implementation of carbon emission quota schemes for the steel, cement, and aluminum industries, which is expected to enhance the demand for carbon monitoring and management solutions [6][12]. - It highlights the strategic acquisitions by High Energy Environment in the mining sector, which are anticipated to open new growth avenues through resource collaboration [13][16]. - Longjing Environmental Protection is noted for its capital increase from Zijin Mining, which is expected to accelerate its growth in green electricity and energy storage sectors [19][20]. Summary by Sections Industry News - The Ministry of Ecology and Environment has issued carbon emission quota plans for 2024 and 2025 for the steel, cement, and aluminum industries, establishing a comprehensive carbon quota system [8][9]. - The report discusses the significant increase in sales of new energy sanitation vehicles, with a year-on-year growth of 61.32% and a penetration rate of 18.02% [29]. Company Specifics - High Energy Environment is strategically advancing into the mining sector, acquiring stakes in three mining companies, which is expected to enhance its resource collaboration and open a second growth curve [13][16]. - Longjing Environmental Protection has received a cash injection from Zijin Mining through a private placement, which is expected to enhance its financial structure and support growth in its green energy and storage segments [19][20][21]. Financial Performance - The report indicates that the solid waste sector is experiencing improved cash flow and profitability, with a notable increase in free cash flow and dividend payouts expected [23][24]. - The water service sector is projected to see significant improvements in cash flow and dividend potential, with ongoing price reforms expected to enhance revenue stability [26][28]. Market Trends - The report notes a shift towards market-oriented operations in the water sector, with companies like Yuehai Investment and Hongcheng Environment expected to maintain high dividend payouts [26][28]. - The sanitation equipment market is witnessing a robust increase in new energy vehicle sales, indicating a growing trend towards sustainable practices in waste management [29].