China's experience in integrating environmental planning towards green rural area and sustainable future

Abstract

With a large rural population, China faces a major challenge in modernizing the rural area without degrading the environment. Since the 18^th Party Congress (2012), the Communist Party of China has emphasized the building of “Ecological civilization” and “Rural revitalization”, aiming to create “Rich, beautiful, and liveable” villages (Reports of the 19^th and 20^th Congresses). The theme of “Green development” is inspired by traditional wisdom, such as the concept of “Clear waters and green mountains are equal to mountains of silver and gold” of General Secretary Xi Jinping. In the context of globalization and climate change, China has built a rural development model associated with environmental protection and green growth. The article summarizes the combination of the idea of ​​“Unity between heaven and people” and modern policies, especially China’s Comprehensive Rural Revitalization Plan 2024-2027. Based on data and academic research, local authorities integrated digital technology, low-carbon energy, and sustainable resource management into infrastructure and services. Typically, the “Ten Million Project" in Zhejiang has contributed to improving the landscape, clean water, and waste; Jiangsu has upgraded its transportation, water supply and drainage systems, and digitized operations. Results have contributed to improving the quality of the rural environment (wastewater treatment rate of about 85% in some places), while promoting the green economy and improving people's lives. This experience suggests a policy framework for developing countries facing challenges of rapid urbanization and environmental degradation, towards harmonious development between people, nature and technology.