The Chinese government puts a strong emphasis on improving the situation. In its efforts to achieve economic growth compatible with a sustainable development, China has a mutual interest with Norway in combating a deteriorating environment. Our two countries have cooperated on environmental issues for more than a decade. A good platform for collaboration has been established. Dialogue and project cooperation within climate change, air- and water pollution, hazardous substances and biodiversity have been useful for both countries and have developed a common understanding and strengthened capacity in dealing with important environmental challenges.
Norway supports projects that contribute to China’s implementation of global environmental conventions and involve Norwegian and Chinese partners mainly within environmental management. Improving environmental planning effectiveness in 5-year plans, strengthening the ability of provincial environmental decision makers to reduce mercury pollution and persistent organic pollutants, developing of provincial strategies for climate change and using hazardous waste in cement kilns in order to replace coal and secure an environmental sound management of hazardous waste are examples of ongoing projects. New projects in the interface of climate change and air pollution, and climate change and biodiversity are in pipeline.
Norway financial supports and attaches great interest to China Council for International Cooperation on Environment and Development (CCICED). With Chinese and international high –level participation, CCICED undertakes studies and gives recommendations to the Chinese government. This makes it a unique mechanism. Norway is pleased to have Norwegian experts involved and that a former minister for the environment hold the post as a vice-chair.
This year CCICEDs focus is on energy and environment. As the largest producer of coal in the world and as the largest emitter of green house gases China has an important role to play.
China has set ambitious national targets on energy efficiency and renewable energy and China’s role as a responsible international player towards the Climate Change Conference in Copenhagen is encouraging.
The stimulus package presented as a response to the economic crisis provides opportunities to kick-start a move towards a low-carbon and green economy. China’s need for a new development path is not only a challenge, but represents an opportunity for innovation and a highly needed restructuring of the industry.
Norway looks forward to continued collaboration with China on environmental issues in a time of challenges and opportunities.
Nina Rør
Environmental Counsellor