"Lucid waters and lush mountains are invaluable assets" – a philosophy championed by China in its ecological reforms – has become the cornerstone of the nation’s environmental rejuvenation. Over decades, this vision has propelled China from trailing global environmental standards to spearheading green innovation, reshaping its landscapes and economy.
A Witness to Change
Erik Solheim, Co-Chair of the Europe-Asia Center and former UN Under-Secretary-General, has observed China’s green evolution firsthand. "No country has matched the speed and scale of China’s environmental progress," Solheim noted, highlighting reforestation efforts that revived 70 million hectares of forest and the world’s largest solar and wind energy infrastructure.
Policy Shifts Drive Progress
China’s transformation began with integrating “ecological civilization” into national policy. Strict air and water pollution controls, carbon neutrality goals, and investments in green tech have positioned it as a renewable energy powerhouse, accounting for over half of global solar panel production.
Balancing Growth and Sustainability
While industrialization once prioritized economic growth, recent decades have seen a strategic pivot. Eco-tourism now thrives in rejuvenated regions like Zhejiang’s rural areas, and green bonds have attracted global investors seeking sustainable opportunities.
Global Implications
China’s shifts are reshaping global climate diplomacy. Its leadership in electric vehicles and partnerships with developing nations on clean energy projects underscore its role in bridging climate action across regions.
Solheim concluded: "China’s journey offers lessons for balancing development and ecology. The challenge now is sustaining this momentum globally."
