In the picturesque landscape of eastern China’s Zhejiang Province, villages flourish amid greenery. Remarkably, in the rivers, there’s an increased presence of the Yangtze finless porpoise, often dubbed the “water panda” because of its rarity. Further afield, scientific expeditions have noted clearer lakes on the Qinghai-Xizang Plateau. These environmental improvements signify China’s dedication to the principle that “lucid waters and lush mountains are invaluable assets,” which inspired China’s inaugural National Ecology Day on August 15.
Chinese President Xi Jinping, emphasizing the importance of this day, urged the nation to exemplify the core principle, highlighting its criticality for China’s sustainable future. In line with China’s journey towards establishing a modern socialist nation, Xi accentuated the need for maintaining strategic ecological progression, simultaneously promoting quality development with high-standard protection.
Xi’s statements further pivoted towards the nation’s carbon management strategy. Focusing on achieving carbon neutrality, he emphasized transitioning from dual controls on energy consumption to those on carbon emissions. Ambitiously, China aims to peak its carbon emissions by 2030 and target carbon neutrality three decades later, by 2060.
Observers argue that National Ecology Day not only fosters ecological consciousness domestically but also offers a platform to showcase China’s ecological endeavors to the global community, thereby enhancing global ecological and climate governance participation.
Wang Wenbin, the spokesperson for the Chinese Foreign Ministry, encapsulated the essence of the day, underscoring the paramount importance of ecological civilization in contemporary times. He conveyed China’s unwavering dedication to building a ‘Beautiful China’, advocating for proactive global environmental governance and reiterating China’s commitment to a sustainable global future.
Determined Efforts in Conservation
A comprehensive bluebook on China’s conservation boundaries, presented by the Ministry of Natural Resources, unveiled an ecological conservation line spanning approximately 3.19 million square kilometers. This enormous stretch envelops over 90% of China’s typical ecological systems and all 35 pivotal biodiversity conservation zones.
Ma Jun, from the Institute of Public and Environmental Affairs, emphasized China’s status as a biodiversity haven. Protection of such diverse ecology has graduated to a national mission. He applauded the innovative strategies adopted by China, such as the establishment of the ecological conservation red line system. Furthermore, he confirmed the demarcation of this protective boundary across China.
To reinforce these protective measures, China leverages technology. Implementing an integrated monitoring network ranging from satellite imaging to ground patrols, they monitor vital ecological areas. These mechanisms primarily target natural preserves and essential ecological zones, according to Huang Runqiu, the Ministry of Ecology and Environment’s chief.
A plethora of legislation, over 30 laws complemented by 100+ administrative and 1,000+ local regulations, fortifies China’s commitment to ecological sustainability. Recent guidelines augment this framework, focusing on streamlined law enforcement in forestry and grassland matters.
Significant strides have been made over the past decade, with national forest coverage jumping to 24.02%. Additionally, China’s contributions to global green coverage is unparalleled, making up a quarter of the global increment.
The Essence of Ecological Prosperity: A Glimpse into Zhejiang
Zhejiang Province, especially Huzhou, is emblematic of the principle that “lucid waters and lush mountains are invaluable assets.” Yucun village, once a limestone mining hub, underwent a transformative journey. A past marred by mining’s environmental toll paved the way for a future dominated by eco-tourism and sustainable industries. This metamorphosis began in 2002, gaining momentum after Xi’s 2005 visit and his emphasis on ecological prosperity.
Local inhabitants now relish the dual benefits of a thriving ecology and economic prosperity. According to Chen Guangju from Huzhou University, Zhejiang’s story emphasizes prioritizing ecology tailored to local conditions to achieve shared affluence. Chen advocates the “two mountains” principle as a path to a revolutionary human civilization form.
Global Implications and Way Forward
China’s ecological strategies serve dual purposes. Domestically, they address environmental concerns, but on the global stage, they positively influence sustainable development and climate action. Sun Shao from the Chinese Academy of Meteorological Sciences emphasized that China’s experience offers invaluable lessons for global environmental conservation. He concluded, “China’s collaborative and technological initiatives underscore its crucial role in global environmental stewardship, addressing global challenges, primarily climate change.”
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