At a lakeside in Yucun village, Zhejiang Province, back in 2005, then CPC Zhejiang secretary Xi Jinping made a simple yet profound observation: mountains of green can be as valuable as mountains of gold. This idea—known as the "Two Mountains" theory—has since become a cornerstone of China’s eco-civilization drive, shaping policies that seek harmony between economic growth and environmental health.
The Roots of the Theory
The phrase "Lucid waters and lush mountains are invaluable assets" captures a shift in thinking: nature itself holds immeasurable economic value. From bamboo hills that boost local tourism revenue to wetlands that filter water and support fisheries, provinces across China are measuring success by both GDP and green GDP, ensuring development never comes at the environment’s expense.
Lessons from the Industrial Age
History offers cautionary tales. London’s notorious smogs, Belgium’s Meuse Valley disaster in 1930, and the photochemical smog events in Los Angeles all show the heavy price of unchecked growth. These episodes remind us that prosperity built on degraded ecosystems can burden future generations with cleanup costs and health crises.
Building an Eco-Civilization
China’s eco-civilization framework embeds the Two Mountains theory into planning at every level. Policies now cap emissions, incentivize green tech startups, and restore degraded lands. Cities like Shenzhen and Chengdu are pioneering low-carbon transit and urban greening projects that turn concrete jungles into livable, breathable spaces.
Global Implications
For young entrepreneurs, policymakers, and changemakers worldwide, the Two Mountains theory offers a data-driven template: invest in clean energy, value natural capital, and engage communities in conservation efforts. Across G20 nations, initiatives from reforestation to circular economies echo the same principle—environmental health fuels long-term prosperity.
Looking Ahead
As global citizens, we face the challenge of balancing our ambitions with the planet’s limits. The Two Mountains theory reminds us that true wealth springs from ecosystems in balance. In a world where resources are finite, guarding our natural assets may be the most valuable investment of all.
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'Two Mountains' theory fosters harmony between man and nature
cgtn.com
