The Yellow River has played a critical role in the growth and prosperity of Chinese civilization for thousands of years. But today, the Yellow and the people who depend on it face severe challenges. Stress of limited water resources, pollution, and flooding pose significant risks to communities and businesses that rely on the river. As these stresses grow, China’s water managers and users face the daunting challenge of implementing policies that balance economy, ecology, and community.
At the Yellow River Commission’s annual Forum in September, water experts from government, research institutes, the private sector, and NGOs gathered to discuss problems facing the Yellow and potential solutions for better water management. One sentiment that came through loud and clear is that the only way to improve the Yellow is for government and business to collaborate—not clash.
At the Forum, it was clear that the relationship between Chinese companies and government is evolving when it comes to water issues. The government is dealing with the complex and pressing challenge of water resource management by setting ambitious goals, adopting a set of “three red lines” in its 2011 No.1 Policy document for achieving water security.
Full paper can be read from World Resources Institue website at: http://www.wri.org/blog/2012/10/improving-china%E2%80%99s-yellow-river-why-business-and-government-need-work-together.
Credit: World Resources Institute, 10 G Street NE Suite 800, Washington, DC 20002, USA
Credit: World Resources Institute, 10 G Street NE Suite 800, Washington, DC 20002, USA
