China has made a significant and clear statement about its vision for future development since 2012.The publication of the first volume of Selected Works on Xi Jinping’s Ecological Civilisation, edited by the Central Party Literature Research Office, brings together more than a decade of President Xi Jinping’s thinking and speeches on sustainable development. Its message is straightforward yet transformative: environmental protection and economic growth are not opposites—they complement and reinforce each other.

For Hong Kong, this publication arrives at a critical moment. The city is navigating significant economic challenges. Global uncertainty, demographic pressures, and shifting markets are testing our resilience. However, instead of viewing the environment as an additional burden, Hong Kong should recognise ecological civilisation as a powerful engine for economic renewal.

The core principle in President Xi’s strategy—that lucid waters and lush mountains are invaluable assets—is profoundly relevant to Hong Kong. It provides a clear theoretical foundation that aligns perfectly with our strengths as an international financial hub, our emerging role in green innovation, and our ongoing efforts in biodiversity conservation.

Importantly, Hong Kong already has a strong base to build upon. In recent years, the city has made meaningful progress in green finance, energy efficiency, carbon neutrality, and conservation. Businesses have started integrating sustainability into their strategies. Universities and NGOs are actively working to raise awareness and deliver innovative solutions.

Yet, the clarity of the national vision calls for an accelerated response. The Mainland is rapidly implementing structural reforms and developing new quality productive forces—industries that are greener, smarter, and more sustainable. This is not just an environmental strategy; it is China’s roadmap for future competitiveness. Hong Kong must act decisively to keep pace, or better yet, lead by example.

Here, proactive government leadership is essential. Market forces alone are not enough. To seize this opportunity, the government must provide clear direction and coordinated action. By doing so, Hong Kong can channel investment, attract talent, and mobilise the community towards shared sustainability goals.

As the Chief Executive and his team prepare the next Policy Address, it is timely to draw inspiration directly from the Selected Works on Xi Jinping’s Ecological Civilisation. Integrating these principles into policy development can help shape ambitious yet practical goals for Hong Kong. Specifically, the city can prioritise decarbonisation, green finance, technological innovation, and, crucially, biodiversity protection as interconnected strategic objectives.

Biodiversity conservation is particularly important. As the Selected Works make clear, ecological civilisation is also about protecting and restoring the natural environment. In Hong Kong, safeguarding nature not only improves quality of life but also creates significant economic value—through ecotourism, ecosystem services, and increased resilience to climate impacts.

Moreover, by adopting ecological civilisation as a guiding vision, Hong Kong can strengthen its role as a global super-connector. This role extends beyond traditional finance to include green finance, climate technology transfer, and sustainability innovation. It is an opportunity to enhance our international standing and reaffirm Hong Kong’s unique value to the nation.

Other regional competitors, from Shenzhen to Singapore, are already moving swiftly to define themselves as sustainable cities of the future. Hong Kong must respond with the same urgency and clarity of purpose. Aligning with the nation’s strategic direction gives the city both a competitive advantage and renewed confidence.

Equally important is public engagement. While government leadership is crucial, ecological civilisation will only succeed if businesses, educational institutions, and communities actively participate. People must see clear benefits—economic, environmental, and social—from pursuing this sustainable path. Positive government messaging and visible action can build public confidence and support for this transformative journey.

This approach is realistic and achievable. Over the past decade, China has demonstrated how ambitious environmental policies can stimulate new industries, improve public health, and secure ecological stability. The Mainland’s progress in renewable energy, reforestation, pollution reduction, and biodiversity protection shows what determined leadership and clear policy direction can accomplish.

Hong Kong can achieve similar successes by following this path. Embracing the principles of ecological civilisation—clearly laid out in the Selected Works—offers us a chance to reinvent our economy, build more resilient communities, and position ourselves as leaders rather than followers.

Now is the moment for Hong Kong to move forward decisively. With clarity of vision from the national level, strong leadership from the Hong Kong government, and active participation across society, we can transform today’s challenges into tomorrow’s strengths.

Ecological civilisation is not just a national policy—it is a practical strategy that fits Hong Kong’s unique character as a dense urban city where over 40% of land is protected for nature and public enjoyment. This balance between compact development and rich biodiversity shows what is possible when thoughtful planning meets long-term commitment. It can unite our community around a positive vision for our collective future. By seizing this opportunity, Hong Kong will not only overcome its current economic challenges but also lay the foundation for a sustainable and prosperous future for generations to come.

By Lawrence Lu  

The views do not necessarily reflect those of Orange News.

Cover Photo: Unsplash