Business
Green Consumption
China eyes on green development in future consumption
  ·  2020-04-13  ·   Source: NO.16 APRIL 16, 2020

A girl in traditional clothing walks beneath peach trees in a village in Sichuan Province, southwest China, on March 26. Ecotourism is key to the local economy (XINHUA)

On March 31, the State Council announced three measures to stimulate the automotive industry. Subsidies and tax exemptions for new-energy vehicles will continue for another two years. In areas such as the Beijing-Tianjin-Hebei region, diesel trucks that fail to meet emission standards will be phased out, with financial support from the Central Government.

These approaches, with their focus on ecological protection, send a clear signal from the government that future consumption should emphasize green development.

A decline in consumption caused by the novel coronavirus outbreak has presented difficulties for some industries. Measures to revive the economy are being implemented gradually at every level of government.

It was suggested that during this crisis authorities needn't prioritize green concepts when formulating economic policies. When retail returns to normal, plans can be adjusted to highlight ecology. Yet in the long run, consumption should not be promoted at the expense of sustainable development.

A sound ecological environment is integral to improving people's wellbeing. Without incorporating principles of green development, consumption can have a detrimental effect on the environment, and do further harm to people's health. Stimulating consumption can work in an environmentally friendly way, with a balance between economic and social progress.

Green consumption can also help change modes of production as well as lifestyles. When local governments step up their approaches to boost consumption, they can provide preferential policies for eco-friendly industries such as culture and tourism. They can also encourage enterprises to continue green production and growth.

This year, China will reach its goal of building a moderately prosperous society in all respects, which will also raise requirements on production and the environment. With more efforts toward sustainable development, a balance between economic growth and environmental protection can be achieved.

(This is an edited excerpt of an article originally published in People's Daily on April 4)

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