Nation to intensify reform drive(2)

Non-communist parties and CPPCC members have put forward more than 480 proposals in this regard since March 2013.

Their suggestion for strict observation of an "ecological protection red line" that would limit the economic development of environmentally vulnerable regions was reflected in the decision reached by top leaders of the Communist Party of China on comprehensively deepening reforms.

Last year, the Committee of Population, Resources and Environment under the CPPCC National Committee conducted 11 pieces of research on environmental issues such as water protection and soil pollution control.

"China has entered a period of pursuing sustainable economic development, rather than simply emphasizing fast gross domestic product growth. Developing the environmental protection industry will become a major task in maintaining sustainable and quality growth," said Chi Fulin, president of the China Institute for Reform and Development and also a CPPCC National Committee member.

Mei Xingbao, an external supervisor for the Bank of China, proposed ecological protection for major rivers and lakes, where the environment is easily damaged by industries.

"To build an ecological civilization, China should cut local obsession with economic growth and abolish GDP-based evaluation of government officials. We should pay more attention to economic quality and the carrying capacity of the environment," Mei said.

Twenty-two provinces and regions recently toned down their GDP growth targets this year in line with the quest for quality growth.

Gao said, "Although economic restructuring is currently causing a lot of pain to enterprises, environmental protection will promote economic growth in the long run."

He said Chinese enterprises' operating costs rose significantly after they strengthened efforts on pollution control.

But once these companies upgrade their industrial technology to a more advanced international level, they will greatly reduce their consumption of natural resources.

Lyu Xinhua, spokesman for the top political advisory body, said on Sunday, "The treatment of air pollution is a long and difficult process, but we hope that clear skies are not a distant dream."