Steady Environmental Improvement

Despite facing adverse economic and meteorological conditions in 2023, China maintained commendable momentum in enhancing its environmental quality. A recent report, under review by the National People’s Congress, highlights the nation’s resilience in environmental stewardship.

Air Quality Resilience

Notably, China sustained its long-term trend of improving air quality despite a surge in air pollutant emissions due to post-pandemic economic recovery. The average concentration of PM2.5 particulate matter rose slightly to 30 micrograms per cubic meter, yet remained lower than pre-epidemic levels, reflecting a 16.7% decrease since 2019.

Challenges and Resilience Factors

The report attributes the challenging conditions to factors such as El Niño, which exacerbated air pollution control efforts by intensifying sand and dust storms. Despite these hurdles, China demonstrated resilience in environmental management, maintaining a focus on sustainable practices.

Water Environment Progress

In addition to air quality, China made notable strides in improving its water environment. Monitoring data revealed a continuous enhancement, with 89.4% of surface water monitoring sections meeting fairly good quality standards—a 1.5 percentage point increase from the previous year.

As China navigates environmental challenges, its steadfast commitment to sustainable development and green policies remains evident. With ongoing efforts to mitigate pollution and promote eco-friendly practices, the nation continues to pave the way towards a cleaner, more sustainable future.

Source：chinadaily.com.cn