Anji County in eastern China’s Zhejiang Province is turning its vast bamboo forests into a catalyst for green development. As the birthplace of China’s “Two Mountains” theory—coined by President Xi Jinping—which states that “lucid water and lush mountains are invaluable assets,” Anji has embraced sustainable practices that harness its natural resources without compromising the environment.
Known as China’s bamboo hometown, Anji has been steadily growing its bamboo industry, transforming the versatile plant into a range of environmentally friendly products. From disposable tableware to hotel amenities, bamboo has become a renewable alternative to plastic, catering to a global demand for sustainable materials.
The county’s efforts are paying off. By 2024, Anji expects its bamboo industry to reach an output value of 19 billion yuan (approximately $2.71 billion). This significant economic growth not only boosts the local economy but also positions Anji as a model for ecological advancement.
Local enterprises have innovated by integrating traditional bamboo craftsmanship with modern technology, expanding the applications of bamboo far beyond traditional uses. Everyday items such as cutlery, textiles, and even building materials are now being crafted from bamboo, highlighting its potential as a sustainable resource.
Anji’s success story reflects a broader movement within China to pursue economic development that is in harmony with nature. By leveraging its abundant bamboo forests, Anji is turning what was once a humble plant into “green gold,” demonstrating how ecological preservation can coincide with economic prosperity.
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Anji 'gold mine' of bamboo trees spurs China's green development
cgtn.com
