The Rural Vitalization Strategy (2018-22), recently issued by the Central Committee of the Communist Party of China and the State Council, requires changing production methods and a shift in lifestyles. According to the report, rural areas must promote ecology vitalization in order to establish a clean environment with a stable and healthy ecological system where humans and nature can exist harmoniously. "Green mountains and clear water are as good as mountains of gold and silver," the plan said.

The key to improving the ecology in rural areas doesn't simply lie in the construction of relevant infrastructure but in raising rural residents' awareness of environmental protection and improving infrastructure. Without enhancing awareness, fiscal investment will simply go to waste, despite a facet that is often overlooked.

Rural ecological vitalization cannot be realized without farmers' participation and developing these sustainable habits is a lengthy process. Rules and regulations for environmental protection should be formulated to guide villagers to pursue green lifestyles. Various rural business entities such as cooperatives and family farms should set an example by changing their production methods first.

Ecological progress is an important step in rural vitalization. Only by encouraging villagers to shoulder their share of responsibilities in ecological protection can this goal be realized.

(This is an edited excerpt of an article published in Guangming Daily on October 18)