Jiangsu’s plan for ecological environment protection along Yangtze River

In order to enhance protection of the ecological environment along the Yangtze River in Jiangsu province, a revised plan adapting to Jiangsu’s local situation was launched in December 2017 on the basis of guidelines released by the National Development and Reform Commission and the ministries of water resources and ecology and environment.

It is expected that by 2020, ecological environment and the stability of ecological systems in Jiangsu will see notable improvement. Goals are set to build a harmonious, healthy, clean, beautiful and safe Yangtze River.

The quality of the water environment, and the air and water ecology will be improved in an all-round way by 2030.

Strict regulations will be enforced both in total water consumption and the water-usage intensity index to protect water resources and make sure they are used scientifically.

Construction of cities, towns and areas undertaking industrial transfer will be required to take water supply capacity into consideration. Limitations will be applied to industries with high water consumption such as steel, paper-making and thermal power.

The priority of natural protection and restoration will be firmly adhered to and it has become increasingly important to distinguish and protect the ecological red line, the ecological guarantee of sustainable development.

Industrial, agricultural and residential pollution of sources of air, water and soil will be under control. Efforts will be devoted to providing quality monitoring and overall management to ensure livable environments in both urban and rural areas.

The plan will encourage innovations in the coordinated mechanisms for ecological environmental protection, such as establishing a monitoring and early alarm system and improving ecological compensation mechanisms.

Governments at all levels will be required to offer solid support in policies, funds and technologies to ensure the implementation of all kinds of measures to protect ecological environments along the Yangtze River.