Beijing plans global hub for green economy

A view of Beijing's CBD area on Aug 19, 2022. [Photo/VCG]

Beijing has launched an initiative to establish itself as a global green economy hub, with a focus on technological innovation, industrial development and sustainable urban planning, aiming to achieve the goal by 2035.

The plan's first phase target is that by 2027, Beijing would see a 10 percent annual growth in green technology patents, improved urban green infrastructure, and deeper regional and international cooperation in the green economy.

Yang Xiuling, director of the Beijing municipal development and reform commission, outlined the city's efforts to accelerate the construction of an international benchmark city for green economy at the fifth Beijing Municipal Administrative Center Green Development Forum, which was held from Saturday to Monday.

Beijing has pursued a green development strategy for years, achieving significant milestones such as a 60 percent reduction in PM2.5 concentration and a 50 percent decrease in carbon emission intensity over the past decade via pollution control measures and carbon neutrality initiatives, according to the commission.

"Beijing boasts rich resources in green technology, robust financial backing, and a strong foundation in green professional services, providing a conducive environment for green economy development," Yang said.

To achieve the 2035 goal, the city plans to accelerate the construction of a global benchmark city for green economy in Beijing, including fostering innovation in green technologies such as hydrogen energy, synthetic biology, and solid oxide fuel cells.

The city will support the growth of green industries in areas like the Daxing International Hydrogen Energy Demonstration Zone, and Changping district's Energy Valley. Meanwhile, Beijing will enhance the functions of green trading, product innovation and a new vehicle for international cooperation at the green exchange.

Hu Jiulong, deputy director of the sub-city center management committee, said that green transportation is an important support for green development.

"Beijing is ramping up the establishment of a cutting-edge autonomous driving demonstration zone, driving forward the eco-friendly and low-carbon intelligent overhaul of the energy infrastructure," Hu said.

"The capital is also focusing on enhancing recycled water transmission and distribution," he added.