Beijing made significant ecological progress in 2023, increasing the city's forest coverage rate to 44.9%, up from 38.6% in 2012. Mayor Yin Yong announced this achievement during the annual government work report at Beijing's legislative meeting on Sunday.
The city planted 15,000 mu (1,000 hectares) of trees last year, contributing to Beijing being awarded the prestigious \"National Forest City\" title. In addition to afforestation efforts, Beijing expanded its green spaces by opening 60 new parks, including 10 suburban parks and 50 pocket parks, bringing the total number of parks in the city to 1,065.
These environmental initiatives have also positively impacted air quality. For the third consecutive year, Beijing met national standards for air pollution, with the average PM2.5 concentration reaching 32 micrograms per cubic meter in 2023—the second-lowest level since monitoring began.
Mayor Yin Yong emphasized the city's commitment to sustainability: \"In 2024, Beijing will strive for the modernization of harmony between humanity and nature.\"
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
