Introduction
When considering the historical background of China`s economic growth, trade-off between environmental protection and sustaining economic growth. Both the opening of free ports during 1978 industrialization process and the impact of 1997 Asian crisis, encouraged the heavy industry and urbanization. “Grow first, clean up later” approach have brought China into a vicious circle: Growth vs. Environmental Damage.
To be able measure the value of environmental loss exactly is almost impossible. The positive impacts of growth should be isolated to calculate the actual loss.
Inhaltsverzeichnis (Table of Contents)
- Introduction
- Status Quo
- Standing of Government
- Impacts of Environmental Pollution
Zielsetzung und Themenschwerpunkte (Objectives and Key Themes)
This document explores the complex relationship between China's rapid economic growth and its environmental and social implications. It analyzes the trade-off between environmental protection and economic development, particularly in the context of China's industrialization and urbanization. The document examines the government's evolving stance on environmental issues and the impacts of environmental pollution on various aspects of Chinese society.
- The environmental cost of China's economic growth
- The government's role in balancing economic development and environmental protection
- The impact of environmental pollution on health, agriculture, and the economy
- The challenges of an aging population in the context of economic growth
- The need for sustainable development in China
Zusammenfassung der Kapitel (Chapter Summaries)
- Introduction: The introduction highlights the trade-off between economic growth and environmental protection in China's historical context. The "grow first, clean up later" approach has led to a vicious cycle of growth vs. environmental damage.
- Status Quo: This chapter examines the current situation in China, focusing on increased energy consumption, coal dependency, and the negative consequences of soil erosion and air pollution. It also addresses the challenges posed by an aging population and the potential impact on economic growth.
- Standing of Government: This chapter explores the government's evolving stance on environmental issues. Initially prioritizing economic growth, the government has gradually recognized the need for change and adopted policies to address environmental concerns. However, the response remains slow and sensitive to the potential impact on economic growth.
- Impacts of Environmental Pollution: This chapter examines the health risks and other negative consequences of pollution, emphasizing the significant cost of pollution compared to the cost of cleaning up. It explores how environmental pollution pressures the government budget and contributes to food inflation.
Schlüsselwörter (Keywords)
Key terms and concepts explored in this document include economic growth, environmental protection, trade-off, sustainable development, energy consumption, coal dependency, soil erosion, air pollution, health risks, aging population, government policy, and environmental regulations.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the "Grow first, clean up later" approach in China?
It refers to China's historical strategy of prioritizing rapid industrialization and economic growth over environmental protection, which has led to significant environmental damage.
How does environmental pollution affect the Chinese economy?
Pollution impacts health, agriculture, and the government budget. It leads to increased healthcare costs, contributes to food inflation, and creates long-term economic losses that may outweigh the benefits of growth.
What are the main environmental challenges facing China?
Key challenges include high energy consumption, heavy dependency on coal, air pollution, and severe soil erosion.
How has the Chinese government's stance on the environment changed?
Initially, the government prioritized growth. Over time, it has recognized the need for sustainable development and adopted new policies, though responses are often slow due to economic concerns.
What role does the aging population play in China's development?
An aging population presents a significant social and economic challenge, potentially slowing down future economic growth while the country still struggles with environmental remediation.
- Quote paper
- M.A. Asligul Aktas (Author), 2009, Impacts of China`s Economic Growth on Environmental and Social Issues, Munich, GRIN Verlag, https://www.grin.com/document/158714
