Kathmandu— China’s landmark Ecological and Environmental Code will take effect on Saturday, marking a significant step in the country’s commitment to sustainable development. The code enshrines “Xi Jinping Thought on Ecological Civilization,” a concept originating from a 2005 visit by then-Zhejiang Province Party chief Xi Jinping to Yucun Village, where he observed that “lucid waters and lush mountains are invaluable assets.” Over the past two decades, this idea has evolved into a national strategy aimed at reconciling economic progress with environmental protection, influencing policy changes across China and contributing to global ecological governance.

From Mountain Village to National Strategy

In August 2005, Xi Jinping visited Yucun Village and praised the community’s decision to close polluting mines in favor of a greener path. He articulated the now-famous principle that “lucid waters and lush mountains are invaluable assets,” setting the stage for a new approach to development. Residents subsequently developed rural tourism and carbon-sink projects, demonstrating how environmental protection could drive economic benefits. During a return visit in 2020, Xi affirmed this success, stating, “Your achievements prove that green development is the right path.”

Yibin’s Transformation: A Model for Ecological Progress

The city of Yibin, located along the Yangtze River, exemplifies China's commitment to ecological restoration. Once plagued by pollution from chemical factories, Yibin underwent a transformation by shutting down polluting industries and implementing strict environmental controls. This resulted in improved water quality and economic growth, with the region’s GDP more than doubling over the past decade. Xi Jinping praised Yibin’s progress during an inspection tour in 2022, urging continued prioritization of conservation alongside high-quality development.

Strengthening Legal Framework for Environmental Protection

The new Ecological and Environmental Code builds upon years of legislative efforts to strengthen environmental protection. Since the 18th National Congress of the Communist Party of China in 2012, the country has launched a widespread anti-pollution campaign and shifted its development model towards sustainability. This includes enshrining ecological civilization in the Constitution, enacting stricter environmental laws, and implementing robust enforcement mechanisms. In 2018, authorities imposed a record fine exceeding 27 million yuan on a chemical company for illegal emissions, prompting it to adopt greener practices.

Global Contributions to Green Development

China’s commitment extends beyond its borders, with significant contributions to global green development initiatives. Xi Jinping announced new Nationally Determined Contributions in September 2025, including targets for reducing greenhouse gas emissions and increasing the share of non-fossil fuels in total energy consumption. China has also provided over 177 billion yuan in funding to developing countries for climate change mitigation and signed cooperation agreements with more than 40 nations. Projects like the “Africa Solar Belt” are bringing electricity to underserved communities, promoting a green and low-carbon development path.

A People-Centered Approach

Xi Jinping has consistently emphasized that ecological progress ultimately benefits the people. The Ecological and Environmental Code reflects this by recognizing a sound environment as a universal public welfare, expanding pollution prevention measures to include emerging concerns like light and electromagnetic radiation. He stated that ecological progress delivers “the strongest sense of gain to the people,” who directly experience the improvements in their quality of life.

The implementation of the Ecological and Environmental Code marks a new era for China’s environmental governance, solidifying its commitment to sustainable development and offering valuable lessons for global ecological protection.

(With inputs from Xinhua)

Originally published on abcnews.com.np.