China’s sustainable development has seen steady improvement, with its sustainability index increasing by 46.8% since the assessment began, according to a recent report released at the COP29 climate conference.
The index, co-released by the China Center for International Economic Exchanges (CCIEE) and the Earth Institute of Columbia University, evaluates five key areas: economic development, social well-being, resource and environmental management, consumption and emissions, and governance and protection. All five sub-indices have shown upward trends, reflecting China’s broad progress across multiple sustainability dimensions.
The findings highlight China’s ongoing efforts in fostering a green, low-carbon transition while driving high-quality economic and societal development. The CCIEE noted that cities like Zhuhai, Qingdao, Hangzhou, Guangzhou, Beijing, and Shanghai are leading in sustainable development, showcasing effective implementation of sustainability practices.
This positive trajectory is seen as a sign that China is progressively aligning its growth with global sustainability goals.