China-ASEAN cities boost ecological sustainability

The first Global Mayors Dialogue of 2025 is expected to take place in January in Nanning City, capital of south China's Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region. 

Mayors from China and ASEAN countries will explore ways to drive green transition and enhance environmental protection across the region.

China and ASEAN countries share common environmental challenges, but also have significant potential for collaboration, particularly in biodiversity conservation and ecological sustainability.

By developing green ecological networks and sharing environmental technologies and knowledge, cities can both protect natural resources and promote sustainable economic development within the region.

The green transition is not only critical for environmental protection but also serves as a driver for economic growth. Many cities across China and ASEAN are actively pursuing innovations in clean energy, green buildings and low-carbon transportation, encouraging policymakers to adopt concrete measures for a low-carbon economy.

Moreover, the openness and cooperation between cities play an essential role in global sustainable development. Platforms like the Global Mayors Dialogue enable cities to exchange best practices, explore green development models and collaborate on global climate change solutions.

Cooperation between China and ASEAN cities in biodiversity protection is evident in cross-border ecological conservation, joint research and environmental policy alignment.

China and Vietnam have partnered to protect the habitat of the endangered eastern black-crested gibbon. The initiative aims to conserve the region's biodiversity and ensure the survival of the gibbons by improving environmental conditions. Both countries are enhancing conservation efforts through joint research, law enforcement and community involvement.

Guangxi's Chongzuo City, located near the China-Vietnam border, also works with Vietnamese cities on biodiversity protection, especially in mangrove restoration and wetland ecosystem rehabilitation. The two sides have established joint protected areas to combat habitat destruction and the illegal hunting of cross-border species.

China and ASEAN countries have made significant strides in the green transition, driving sustainable development, reducing carbon emissions and enhancing ecosystem resilience.

In Singapore, the government introduced the Green Mark certification scheme in 2005 to promote energy-efficient and environmentally friendly technologies in both new and renovated buildings. This initiative has played a key role in transforming Singapore's construction industry toward sustainable practices.

As the permanent venue of the China-ASEAN Expo, Nanning has been at the forefront of green finance development. In 2018, it launched "green bonds" to support financing for green projects. The city also encourages the growth of green businesses, fostering low-carbon economies and sustainable industrial chains.

(Cover: A view of Nanning City, south China's Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, November 22, 2024. /CFP)