Premier Zhu Rongji in his report on the 10th Five-Year Plan for National Economic and Social Development, emphasized sustainable development, called for a balance of economic growth and environmental protection, and for the strengthening of relevant laws and institutions. Accordingly, Premier Zhu indicated the central government's commitment to mitigating the imbalances that result in environmental deterioration and the subsequent social and economic costs.
One of the themes for the Beijing 2008 Olympics is the "Green Olympics". The hosting of the Games in Beijing is an opportunity for environmental improvement and would promote sustainable development in China as a whole and Beijing in particular. According to the Beijing Olympics Report, Beijing has invested a total of US $3.63 billion in spreading the use of clean fuels, controlling gas pollutant emission, treating wastewater, safe disposal of solid waste and protecting wild life species. The Report also stated that Beijing has adopted strict emission standards since 1999, which require a reduction in emissions by 80%. Between the years 2004 and 2007, Beijing will adopt even stricter standards so as to further reduce emission by 60%.
Furthermore, 26 pilot companies implemented the cleaner production options before the end of 1995 and another 26 companies are on demonstration program set by the Beijing EPA in 1996 and 1997, covering brewing, chemical, pulp and paper, machinery, printing and dyeing, electronic, electroplating, pharmaceutical and telecommunication sectors.
Reducing the city's daily garbage production is also said to be a priority of the government. By the year 2007, there will be regulations to ensure the safe and efficient disposal of all domestic rubbish. At present, it is reported that Beijing has already had 80% of urban garbage safely disposed of, but by the year 2007, the amount will increase to 100%. At the same time, 50% of the domestic waste will be sorted before being collected and 30% will be recycled.
EHS is a universally accepted concept. As China works towards sustaining its economic development, it is imperative that it also works towards improving its EHS policy.
