China's Environmental Challenges

The third edition of Judith Shapiro's book explores China's struggle to achieve the 'ecological civilization championed by Xi Jinping since 2017' due to its economic growth, authoritarian governance patterns, soaring middle class consumption, and manufacturing sector. Transformation to a more sustainable development model is possible, but it requires humility, creativity, and a rejection of business as usual. China and the planet are at a pivotal moment.

Format: Hardback
Length: 288 pages
Publication date: 26 January 2024
Publisher: John Wiley and Sons Ltd

The environmental challenges facing China are immense and have far-reaching consequences not only for the health and well-being of its citizens but also for the future of our planet. In this fully revised and updated third edition of her acclaimed book, renowned scholar of Chinese environmentalism Judith Shapiro delves into China's ongoing struggle to achieve the ecological civilization championed by Xi Jinping since 2017.

Drawing on six core analytical concepts—globalization, governance, national identity, civil society, environmental justice, and extractivism—Shapiro provides a comprehensive exploration of the multifaceted and complex nature of this struggle. China's rapid economic growth has come at a significant cost, with air and water pollution, soil contamination, and the loss of habitat for biodiversity all on the rise. However, its pursuit of sustainability has been hindered by authoritarian governance patterns, soaring middle-class consumption, the need to provide employment and safety nets for a population of over one billion, and a manufacturing sector driven by the desire to secure global resources and expand into new markets.

Despite these challenges, Shapiro believes that transformation to a more sustainable development model is still possible. However, this will require a willingness to embrace humility, creativity, and a departure from business-as-usual approaches. China, as well as the entire world, is at a pivotal moment, where urgent action is needed to address the pressing environmental concerns and work towards a more sustainable future.

The book offers valuable insights into the complex interplay between economic development, social welfare, and environmental protection in China. It sheds light on the challenges faced by policymakers, businesses, and citizens as they navigate the complex web of regulations, incentives, and cultural norms that shape China's environmental policies and practices. Shapiro also highlights the role of civil society organizations, grassroots movements, and individual citizens in driving change and advocating for sustainable development.

Through her comprehensive analysis, Shapiro provides a roadmap for policymakers, businesses, and citizens to navigate the challenges and opportunities of China's environmental transformation. She advocates for a more holistic and integrated approach that balances economic growth, social well-being, and environmental protection. She also calls for greater international cooperation and collaboration to address global environmental challenges, such as climate change and biodiversity loss.

In conclusion, China's environmental challenges are immense, but they also present an opportunity for transformative change. By embracing humility, creativity, and a rejection of business-as-usual approaches, China and the world can work towards a more sustainable and equitable future. This fully revised and updated third edition of Judith Shapiro's book is a valuable resource for anyone interested in understanding China's environmental challenges and the opportunities for sustainable development.

ISBN-13: 9781509559671
Edition number: 3 ed