On September 25, 2024, at a press conference hosted by the State Council Information Office, China’s Minister of Ecology and Environment, Huang Runqiu, provided a detailed explanation of the concept of Beautiful China. According to Huang, Beautiful China encompasses at least three layers of meaning, which can be summarized as outer beauty, inner beauty, and a refined temperament.
Outer Beauty: Ecological Harmony
Outer beauty refers to the ecological beauty of the environment, which is the most significant and fundamental aspect of Beautiful China. This includes a blue sky, green land, and clear water, as well as the overall aesthetic of urban and rural environments. Huang emphasized that the quality of the environment is the most direct and visible indicator of Beautiful China. He highlighted the ongoing efforts to improve air quality, water quality, and soil health, aiming to create a harmonious and livable environment for all citizens.
Inner Beauty: High-Quality Development
Inner beauty refers to the high-quality development of the country. This is the intrinsic requirement for Beautiful China and involves the widespread formation of a green and low-carbon lifestyle and production methods. Huang noted that the development of new and green industries is driving the economy forward, positioning them as the main engines of growth. This shift towards sustainable development is crucial for achieving long-term environmental and economic goals.
Refined Temperament: Robust Institutional Mechanisms
Refined temperament refers to the robust institutional mechanisms that support the realization of Beautiful China. Huang pointed out that the establishment of an advanced ecological governance system and the enhancement of governance capabilities are key to achieving this vision. This includes the implementation of measures such as ecological and environmental protection inspections, environmental monitoring and enforcement reforms, and the expansion of carbon markets.
Strategic Measures for Beautiful China
To achieve the vision of Beautiful China, the Ministry of Ecology and Environment has outlined a series of strategic measures:
1. Implementation System
- A 1+1+N implementation system is being developed. The first 1 represents the already released opinion on the comprehensive promotion of Beautiful China, while the second 1 will be the soon-to-be-released opinion on the construction of Beautiful China demonstration zones. The N refers to 24 sub-field action plans covering areas such as beautiful cities, beautiful countryside, green finance, green transportation, and technological support.
2. Reform Outcomes
- A series of significant reforms will be introduced, including the strengthening of environmental zoning management, deepening reforms of provincial and below-level environmental monitoring, law enforcement, and inspection institutions, and expanding the scope of the national carbon market.
3. Practical Demonstration
- The Ministry has already launched 56 beautiful river and 20 beautiful bay case studies. They are also implementing innovative pilot programs for waste-free cities and low-carbon cities, exploring effective pathways for converting ecological products into economic value.
4. Supportive Measures
- A comprehensive evaluation system for the achievements of Beautiful China is being established. The ministry will employ a combination of legal, market, technological, and policy measures to support these initiatives.
Conclusion
Huang Runqiu concluded by emphasizing that the next ten years are critical for the comprehensive promotion of Beautiful China. The Ministry of Ecology and Environment will continue to drive these initiatives, ensuring that China remains at the forefront of global environmental protection efforts. The vision of Beautiful China is not just a slogan; it is a concrete plan that involves all sectors of society, from government to citizens, working together towards a more sustainable and harmonious future.
This article provides a comprehensive overview of the Beautiful China initiative, highlighting the three key aspects and the strategic measures being implemented to achieve this vision. It underscores the importance of ecological, economic, and institutional reforms in realizing a more sustainable and beautiful China.
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