By Yu Zhihong, President and Editor-in-Chief of China Sustainability Tribune

Source: China Sustainability Tribune

2025 marks the 20th anniversary of the proposition of the concept that "lucid waters and lush mountains are invaluable assets." This scientific thesis, known as the "Two Mountains" theory, reveals with profound dialectical thinking the inherent unity between ecological conservation and economic development—lucid waters and lush mountains are not only natural wealth but also economic and social wealth.

Over the past two decades, the "Two Mountains" theory has taken root in China like a seed, evolving from local practice to a national strategy and from conceptual innovation to actionable guidance. It has led to historic transformations and achievements in China's ecological conservation efforts while offering the world a Chinese solution imbued with Eastern wisdom and practical value for sustainable development.

Every visit to Zhejiang offers a vivid demonstration of how the "Two Mountains" theory has been woven into the fabric of regional development, creating a dynamic synergy between regional growth and ecological conservation.

The transformation of Binjiang District in Hangzhou stands as a prime example. Once a traditional industrial zone, it has now become a "green smart corridor." By phasing out polluting industries and fostering core digital economy sectors, the district has established a "blue-green intertwined" development model, integrating ecological spaces like Binjiang Park and Baima Lake Wetland with industrial parks. This ecological advantage has become a magnet for high-end talent. 

The Keqiao District in Shaoxing, renowned as the "Textile Town" for its dyeing industry, has restored the clarity of its canals by building centralized wastewater treatment plants and promoting waterless dyeing technologies. This shift has spurred the rise of eco-friendly equipment manufacturers and circular economy projects. While the textile industry continues to break output records, green products now account for over 60% of its offerings, marking a stunning transition into a "green industry."

As Zhejiang’s ecological shield, Qingyuan County, Lishui, steadfastly upholds ecological red lines. By integrating mushroom farming with forest-based economies and certifying agricultural products with "eco-labels" to boost added value, the county maintains a forest coverage rate exceeding 86%. In 2024, the realized value of its ecological products reached 5.8 billion yuan, steadily enhancing its "ecological dividend."

Chinese enterprises are both active practitioners and direct beneficiaries of the "Two Mountains" theory, demonstrating its value through innovative actions. In the "Golden Key—SDG Solutions" campaign, the ability to create multiple values has become a key criterion for outstanding solutions, with many exemplary cases emerging in recent years.

In industries like petrochemicals, chemicals, automotive, and steel, air compressors are ubiquitous—but compressed air systems are major energy consumers. State Grid Ningbo Power Supply Company addressed this by creating the "Tao Qi Bao" energy efficiency platform, offering enterprises integrated services such as energy-saving diagnostics, design consulting, equipment procurement, maintenance, and digital operations. This full-cycle solution has improved the efficiency of industrial compressed air systems, turning the idea of "mining gold from compressed air" into reality and achieving coordinated growth in economic, environmental, and social benefits.

The "Two Mountains" theory aligns seamlessly with the concept of sustainable development, both emphasizing the harmonious progress of economy, environment, and society. Truly understanding this theory unlocks the golden key to ecological conservation and sustainable development—it is not only a measure of value but also a methodological guide. For businesses, the "Two Mountains" theory reshapes not just their environmental priorities but their entire development logic.

Looking ahead, only by continuously guiding practice with this philosophy can we make green the defining feature of high-quality development.