What does sustainable urban living look like in practice? For many, the answer lies in Kunming — a vibrant city in southwest China's Yunnan Province that harmonizes modernity with ecological consciousness. Known as the \"city of eternal spring\" for its year-round temperate climate, Kunming’s 2,300-year history is now intertwined with forward-thinking environmental practices, from thriving green spaces to clean-energy transportation.
Strolling through Kunming’s streets, visitors encounter a mosaic of well-preserved heritage trees, pedestrian-friendly pathways, and residents zipping by on bicycles or e-bikes. Over 60% of the city’s urban area is dedicated to parks and greenbelts, creating what locals call \"a garden you live inside.\" This focus on livability has drawn global attention, including from Pakistani vlogger Younus Ghazali, who has documented his experiences over six years in China.
\"Kunming shows modernization doesn’t mean sacrificing nature — it’s about creating systems where both thrive,\" says Ghazali in his recent video exploration of the city. \"The clean air, the biodiversity, the way people interact with their environment — it reshapes your idea of progress.\"
As Chinese cities increasingly prioritize eco-innovation, Kunming offers a case study in balancing rapid development with sustainability, appealing to urban planners and environmentally conscious travelers alike.
Reference(s):
Mapping Chinese modernization: An eco-friendly city in my eyes
cgtn.com
