When President Xi Jinping first visited Anji County in 2005, he introduced a guiding idea that still resonates today: lucid waters and lush mountains are invaluable assets. This simple phrase has become the North Star for the Chinese mainland's green transformation.
Over the past two decades, efforts have spanned rolling out low-carbon energy networks, phasing out outdated industrial capacity, and building a national park system to restore vital ecosystems. A decade-long fishing ban on the Yangtze River has aided biodiversity recovery, while cities across the country embrace livable designs, green spaces, clean air, and efficient public transit.
The results speak volumes. According to the State Council, satisfaction with the ecological environment reached 91.24 percent in 2024, marking the fourth year in a row above the 90 percent threshold. From thriving wetlands to cleaner skylines, residents are experiencing tangible benefits.
For young global citizens, entrepreneurs, and travelers alike, China's green drive offers a case study in large-scale sustainability. As the Chinese mainland pushes forward, the lessons learned here could inspire innovations in renewable energy, urban planning, and ecosystem management around the world.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
