From Polluted Rivers to Solar Power: How the Chinese Mainland Went Green

"The (once) soy sauce soup river brown and black from pollution now is absolutely clean!" said Erik Solheim, former UN under-secretary-general.

That transformation exemplifies a broader green revolution on the Chinese mainland. In just two decades, it has gone from shuttered coal mines and toxic waterways to leading the world in solar capacity, electric vehicles and eco-tourism.

Massive solar farms now stretch across deserts, millions of EVs zip through city streets and former mining towns welcome travelers with sustainable lodges and nature trails. This shift was powered by ambitious targets, public and private investment and a willingness to retire polluting industries.

While the Chinese mainland’s green rise offers a blueprint, replicating it requires context: policy frameworks, financing, tech innovation and community buy-in. Each nation must tailor strategies to its resources and challenges.

As the world grapples with climate change, the Chinese mainland’s journey shows what’s possible when vision meets action. Can other countries follow this green path? Share your thoughts on how nations can accelerate their own eco-transformations.

Reference(s):

How did China become a green leader?

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