China's Environmental Solutions: Policies, Technologies, and Perspectives

Modern China has for long focused only on the rapid growth of its economy and has also achieved astounding success. However, the unbalanced growth has led to severe air and water pollution, alarming amounts of plastic and microplastic waste, and the loss of natural habitats, causing unease among Chinese citizens and in neighboring countries. A substantial part of the information on these developments and emerging solutions is hidden in the "grey literature." This book has used documents from such "grey" literature as well as academic research to present an overview of China's efforts in cleaning up the environment, restoring ecosystems, and decarbonizing the economy. The book is organized into five main topics: a short history of the Chinese environment, efforts for the remediation of air and water, ecosystem restoration, emerging measures for decarbonization, and megatrends that contribute to environmental protection. These include new energies, comprehensive digitalization at all levels, and the development of a "bioeconomy." International aspects of China's environmental policy and a short introduction into China's geography and political structure complement this book.