China is forging a new path in environmental stewardship, integrating ecological preservation into every facet of its national strategy. Guided by President Xi Jinping’s vision of an ecological civilization, China is transforming its approach to sustainability, setting a global example in pollution control and ecological restoration.
President Xi Jinping emphasized the importance of environmental protection, stating, “We shall protect ecosystems as preciously as we protect our eyes, and cherish them as dearly as we cherish our lives.” This philosophy has become the ideological cornerstone of China’s green shift, promoting comprehensive efforts to build an ecological civilization in the new era.
China’s multifaceted environmental strategy involves the integration of ecological preservation across economic, political, cultural, and social domains. The nation has enacted stringent environmental legislation and established robust frameworks aimed at comprehensive pollution prevention and control. Significant advancements include the implementation of action plans targeting air, water, and soil pollution, leading to notable improvements in environmental quality nationwide.
China’s approach to air pollution has evolved into a systematic effort managing pollutants such as soot, dust, sulfur dioxide, and chemical oxygen demand. The government has adopted overarching emission reduction strategies and a “target responsibility system” that assigns specific pollution reduction targets to regions and industries. These measures have yielded positive results, recognized both domestically and internationally.
A poignant example of China’s commitment to ecological restoration is found in Wuwei City, Gansu Province. Here, over 6,800 officials and workers from 118 organizations united to combat desertification in the core area of the Tengger Desert. Utilizing agricultural waste like wheat and rice straw, they employed innovative “checkerboarding” techniques to stabilize sand dunes and prevent sand drift, effectively halting the desert’s expansion.
Between 2012 and 2022, China made remarkable strides in environmental restoration. Nearly 64 million hectares were afforested, about 8.3 million hectares of grassland were improved, and over 800,000 hectares of wetlands were restored or newly created. These efforts underscore China’s dedication to ecosystem rejuvenation and biodiversity conservation.
China’s comprehensive approach to environmental stewardship demonstrates its leadership in global ecological efforts. By integrating ecological principles into national development and implementing innovative strategies, China is paving the way for a sustainable future, contributing significantly to global environmental governance.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
