Hainan to observe strictest eco-standards in development
To build itself into a top international tourism destination, China's southernmost Hainan Province is expected to undertake massive infrastructure construction. Together with large numbers of tourists pouring onto the island, it adds to the fear of ecological degradation.
In response, the local government has pledged to observe the strictest environmental standards during the course of the island's development.
Chi Fulin, a Hainan-based researcher, says about 20 years ago, extensive damage to the coral reefs was found in the vicinity of Sanya in the south of the island. This damage proved to be the result of the popular practice of fishing with explosives and the collection of corals for lime.
This served as an environmental alarm for the government. With relevant local regulations enacted and revised, Chi Fulin says the coral reefs have been preserved and are gradually recovering.
While the large inflow of tourists will definitely put pressure on the environment, the researcher says selling green tourism will help promote the island on the one hand and preserve its ecosystem on the other.
"It doesn't mean that we will abandon development. Instead, we will pursue a sustained development with the strictest environmental protection measures."