How China's eco-governance is shaping a greener future

Erik Solheim recalled that over a decade ago, he was too worried about smog in Beijing to even run outdoors.

Today, the former executive director of the United Nations Environment Programme makes time for morning runs whenever he returns to the city.

Solheim said he has noted that most vehicles on the road were "quiet, pollution-free, cost-effective" new energy vehicles, demonstrating the results of China's green development approach.

Behind these visible changes is a broader effort to advance ecological progress.

China's landmark Ecological and Environmental Code took effect on Saturday, further strengthening the legal foundation for the harmonious coexistence between humanity and nature.

As the second formal statutory code after the Civil Code, the legislation for the first time enshrines Xi Jinping Thought on Ecological Civilization in law.

As President Xi Jinping has said, "harmony between man and nature is a defining feature of Chinese modernization.

China is a steadfast actor and major contributor to promoting global green development." A philosophy that guides real change "Lucid waters and lush mountains are invaluable assets." First put forward in 2005 during Xi's visit to Yucun Village in Zhejiang Province, the "two mountains" concept – which means that "lucid waters and lush mountains are invaluable assets" – has transformed from a local slogan into a cornerstone of China's national strategy.

China now leads the world in renewable energy deployment.

China's new renewable energy capacity additions hit a record high in 2025, accounting for over 60% of global additions.

With around 300 million kilowatts of new wind and solar capacity this year, renewable energy has served as a major driver of green, low-carbon energy transition, per the National Energy Administration.

Clifford Cobb, a leading ecological economist in the United States, has closely followed China's environmental path.

He believes the idea presents a new model of development.

"Over the past 20 years, China has proven it's possible to protect nature while generating economic value," Cobb said.