Glossary
13th Five-Year Plan (十三五规划)
A comprehensive development plan for China covering the period from 2016 to 2020. It set specific targets for environmental protection, including reducing coal consumption and increasing non-fossil fuel energy.
Example:
The 13th Five-Year Plan outlined ambitious goals for China to transition towards a low-carbon economy and combat climate change.
Afforestation
The establishment of a forest or stand of trees in an area where there was no previous tree cover. It helps absorb carbon dioxide from the atmosphere.
Example:
Large-scale afforestation projects are underway in China to combat desertification and increase carbon sequestration.
Carbon Trading System (碳排放交易系统)
A market-based approach to control pollution by providing economic incentives for achieving reductions in the emissions of pollutants. Companies can buy and sell allowances to emit carbon.
Example:
China's national Carbon Trading System allows companies that emit less carbon than their allowance to sell their surplus to those who exceed theirs, incentivizing reductions.
Clean Technologies
Technologies that reduce negative environmental impacts, such as those that minimize pollution, conserve energy, or use sustainable resources. Examples include carbon capture and advanced waste treatment.
Example:
Investing in clean technologies is crucial for industries to modernize while also reducing their environmental footprint.
Coal Dependence
A country's reliance on coal as a primary source of energy. Burning coal is a major contributor to greenhouse gas emissions and air pollution.
Example:
Reducing coal dependence is a key goal for China to improve air quality and meet its climate targets.
Electric Vehicles (EVs)
Automobiles powered by electricity, either fully or partially, rather than gasoline. They produce zero tailpipe emissions, contributing to cleaner air.
Example:
Promoting Electric Vehicles is a strategy to reduce urban air pollution and decrease reliance on fossil fuels for transportation.
Energy Efficiency
Using less energy to perform the same task or produce the same result. This can be achieved through improved technologies, practices, and building designs.
Example:
By improving energy efficiency in buildings and factories, China aims to reduce its overall energy consumption and emissions.
Green Credit Policy (绿色信贷政策)
A policy that encourages financial institutions to provide loans and financing for environmentally friendly projects and to restrict credit for polluting industries. It aims to steer investment towards sustainable development.
Example:
Thanks to the Green Credit Policy, banks are now prioritizing loans for solar power plants over new coal-fired power stations.
Greenhouse Gases
Gases in Earth's atmosphere that trap heat, leading to global warming and climate change. Common examples include carbon dioxide (CO2) and methane.
Example:
Factories and cars release a lot of greenhouse gases, which is why many cities are trying to reduce their carbon footprint.
Industrialization
The process by which an economy is transformed from primarily agricultural to one based on the manufacturing of goods. This often leads to increased energy consumption and pollution.
Example:
China's rapid industrialization has brought economic prosperity but also significant environmental challenges, like air pollution.
Made in China 2025 Initiative (中国制造2025)
A strategic plan by the Chinese government to upgrade its manufacturing capabilities, focusing on high-tech industries. It includes goals for increased energy efficiency and the use of clean technologies.
Example:
Under the Made in China 2025 Initiative, factories are encouraged to adopt advanced robotics and cleaner production methods.
One Belt, One Road Initiative (一带一路)
A global development strategy adopted by the Chinese government involving infrastructure development and investments in countries and organizations in Europe, Asia, and Africa. It increasingly incorporates environmental sustainability goals.
Example:
The One Belt, One Road Initiative aims to boost economic connectivity while also promoting green development along its routes.
Renewable Energy
Energy derived from natural processes that are replenished constantly, such as solar, wind, hydro, and geothermal power. It is a cleaner alternative to fossil fuels.
Example:
China is making massive investments in renewable energy sources like solar farms and wind turbines to power its future.
Urbanization
The process of population shift from rural to urban areas, leading to the growth of cities. This can increase energy demand, traffic, and waste generation.
Example:
With millions moving to cities, rapid urbanization in China has put a strain on resources and increased transportation emissions.