On the morning of March 5, 2024, during the Second Session of the 14th National People’s, Premier Li Qiang, delivered the government work report for 2024 on behalf of the State Council.
Premier Li emphasized the importance of enhancing environmental protection and promoting green, low-carbon development in 2024. He emphasized the concept that “green mountains and clear waters are as valuable as mountains of gold and silver,” highlighting the equal significance of environmental preservation and economic development.
This vision requires concerted efforts to reduce carbon emissions, combat pollution, expand green spaces, and foster growth, aiming to achieve harmonious coexistence between humans and nature.
Reflecting on 2023, Premier Li noted steady improvements in environmental quality. The nationwide campaign against pollution intensified, leading to continued reductions in major pollutants and improvements in surface water and coastal area quality.
Milestones such as the historic surpassing of renewable energy installed capacity over thermal power underscored China’s commitment to sustainable development.
In 2024, initiatives will include implementing large-scale ecological system protection and restoration projects, and strengthening ecological and environmental inspections, formulating policies supporting green, low-carbon industries, promoting ultra-low emissions transformation in key sectors and launching carbon peak pilot cities and zones. China will also actively engage in global climate governance efforts.
Looking ahead, Premier Li outlined key development goals for 2024, including approximately 5% GDP growth while reducing energy consumption per unit of GDP by around 2.5% and continuing to improve ecological environmental quality.
The government’s tasks for 2024 encompass advancing green, low-carbon development, furthering comprehensive environmental governance, and nurturing the growth of the green economy. This involves implementing measures to improve air quality, coordinate water resources management, strengthen soil pollution prevention, enhance solid waste and plastic pollution management, and bolster ecosystem protection and restoration efforts.
Additionally, initiatives will target the development of green industries, the promotion of energy efficiency and clean energy utilization, and the gradual realization of carbon peak and neutrality objectives.
