40 years of reform and opening-up: Dalian never forgets the environment

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In China's northeastern city of Dalian, environmental preservation meets economic development. The two go hand in hand, and experts say it's a testament to the progress the city has made in 40 years of reform and opening-up.

Sand as fine as powder meets azure waters and painted skies. The people of Dalian have always treasured their gifts of nature. Despite rapid urban development in recent years, the pleasure of a promenade by the sea remain.

The people of Dalian have always treasured their gifts of nature. /CGTN Photo.

"Since 1988, when the area was first rated a national scenic spot, management personnel have come and gone. But the principles of environmental protection have always been strictly followed," said Liu Xincun, vice director of administration at Jinshitan Scenic Area.

Dalian's scenery reminds people that economic prosperity doesn't have to come at the expense of the environment. And being a key transportation hub, over the past four decades the city's port has driven more than just goods.

Liu Xincun from the administration of Jinshitan Scenic Area. /CGTN Photo

"The port's oil terminal first went into operation in 1976. Its mission in those days was to facilitate the export of China's crude oil, as the nation urgently needed foreign exchange," said Lu Qide, the vice general manager of oil terminals at Dalian port.

Experts say the reform and opening-up two years later was the most efficient way to bring prosperity to many Chinese industries. And for one of the country's largest oil terminals, safety is just as important as making a profit.

The photo was taken in 1976, when China's first oil terminal capable of handling a 10,000 ton oil tanker was put into service in Dalian. /File Photo

"Due to the highly volatile compound of oil and petroleum products at the terminal, we never compromise on anything that violates safety measures. We think that by creating a culture of safety, good business will follow," said Lu Qide, the vice general manager of oil terminals at Dalian port.

Lu Qide (R), the vice general manager of oil terminals at Dalian port, thinks that by creating a culture of safety, good business will follow. /CGTN Photo

In 1978, the world hardly could imagine how much economic and social progress China would make in the next 40 years. Today, places like the city of Dalian are more confident than ever, in advancing reform and opening-up from a new starting point.