ABSTRACT
China’s reform/opening process was exceptionally successful in generating enduring economic growth and development, though several challenges remain. The environmental issue is one of them. Millions of Chinese people suffer from appalling urban air quality; water and soil pollution; land degradation; drought and floods; as well as from perilous weather phenomena like the Kosa (sandstorms). Climate change will exacerbate many of these negative impacts further by fuelling their intensity and durability. China has already become the biggest polluter in absolute terms with significant social and economic implications, whereas, on a per capita basis China still ranks below many developed countries. Even so, the economic growth focus of its government carries the potential to worsen the situation as does China’s rapid urbanization process and the lifestyle changes of its urban population. Consequently, the pressure on China’s environment will continue as will China’s contribution to global climate change.
