In cities across the Chinese mainland, the concept of “harmony between human and nature”—once confined to policy papers—is taking root in daily life. From morning jogs along lakeside promenades to afternoons spent under shady groves, urban dwellers are rediscovering green spaces right at their doorsteps.
The 14th Five-Year Plan laid the groundwork for sweeping ecological restoration projects, urban renewal initiatives, and shifts in energy systems. Now, recommendations for the upcoming 15th cycle suggest that green development is no longer just an industrial imperative—it’s a lifestyle choice that connects people with their environment.
Walkable parks, interconnected running trails, and revitalized waterfronts are more than scenic assets; they represent a shift in how cities prioritize well-being and sustainability. For the millions who live within a few steps of these spaces, a breath of fresh air is just part of the daily routine.
At the heart of this movement is the idea that nature should not be a distant ideal but an everyday reality. Whether it’s rooftop gardens filtering urban smog or community-led tree-planting drives, new urban landscapes are designed so people can feel the pulse of the natural world without ever leaving their neighborhoods.
As green becomes the new center of urban life in the Chinese mainland, cities are offering a blueprint for balancing modern growth with ecological resilience. In this new era, nature is both the backdrop and the main event—present in every step, sight, and breath.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
