China's dedication to energy efficiency and low-emission growth is prominently showcased through initiatives such as the 2025 National Energy Efficiency Promotion Week, taking place from June 23 to 29, and National Low-Carbon Day on June 25. These events underline the country's strategy to promote sustainability and reduce its carbon footprint.

Central to China's low-carbon ambitions are its natural ecosystems, including forests, grasslands, and wetlands, which play a critical role as large-scale carbon banks. These natural resources are not only vital for biodiversity but also serve as essential tools in combating climate change.

In 2022, the National Forestry and Grassland Administration took significant steps by launching 18 pilot cities and counties dedicated to enhancing forestry carbon sinks. This initiative was complemented by the establishment of 21 state-owned forest carbon-sink demonstration sites, illustrating pathways toward high-quality carbon-sink development.

A notable survey conducted in 2024 revealed that China's forests and grasslands absorb over 1.2 billion tonnes of carbon dioxide equivalent each year, a figure that positions the country at the forefront of global carbon absorption efforts.

In addition to harnessing natural processes, China is simultaneously advancing its energy infrastructure through mega-projects like the west-to-east power transmission initiative. This project is instrumental in transporting energy from regions abundant in renewable resources to urban centers, thereby enhancing overall energy efficiency while minimizing emissions.

A recent photo feature highlights China's innovative practices and mechanisms for ecological carbon sinks, showcasing the results of policy-driven carbon-sink assessments and trading. This integration of ecosystem protection with low-carbon growth represents a holistic approach to environmental sustainability.

(Cover: Wind turbines and the coastal shelterbelt forest in Weihai City, Shandong Province, east China, August 7, 2024. /VCG)