Chinese leaders push for 'greenization'

China's top leadership backed a "conservation culture" Tuesday and, for the first time, adopted the idea of "greenization."

Henceforth, conservation culture should be considered in all aspects of government work -- economic, political, social and cultural -- in pursuit of "industrialization, urbanization, informationization, agricultural modernization and greenization," according to a meeting of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China (CPC) Central Committee.

The meeting, presided over by CPC Central Committee General Secretary Xi Jinping, approved a guideline on conservation culture and highlighted "greenization" of production, the economy and lifestyles: lowering resource consumption, boosting green industries and promoting a low-carbon, thrifty lifestyle.

Leaders discussed conservation concerns in sustainable development and how to meet demands for a better environment. They stressed optimal land development, more recycling, technological innovation and adjustment to the economic structure. "Green development" can be part of national soft power and a new advantage in international competition.

The importance of a system to advance conservation culture was also discussed, with a concrete plan promised "as soon as possible." The plan will include control and use of resources, land management rights, compensation and sanctions for those who damage the environment.

Local governments should pilot conservation culture areas to gain experience that can be copied and disseminated.

The entire Party was urged to work for a conservation culture that contributes to the world's green development and global eco-safety.