Peters, Michael A.; Green, Benjamin; Misaszek, Greg William CHINA ECOLOGICAL CIVILIZATION: A NEW MODEL FOR GREEN MODERNIZATION AND GLOBAL LEADERSHIP

CHINA ECOLOGICAL CIVILIZATION: A NEW MODEL FOR GREEN MODERNIZATION AND GLOBAL LEADERSHIP*

*This paper was first published as an Introduction to the “Handbook of Ecological Civilization: Concept, Philosophy, and Pedagogy” (Edited by Michael A. Peters, Benjamin J. Green, Greg William Misiaszek, Xudong Zhu. New York: Springer, 2025).

Michael A. Peters

is a globally esteemed philosopher of education and public intellectual whose scholarship has profoundly shaped contemporary thought across philosophy, education, and political economy. He is currently Distinguished Visiting Professor at Tsinghua University (P.R. China), Emeritus Professor at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign (USA), and Research Associate in the Philosophy Program at the University of Waikato (New Zealand). He served as Distinguished Professor of Education at Beijing Normal University from 2018 to 2024.

Benjamin Green

is an Assistant Professor at Teachers College, Beijing Language and Culture University, having previously taught at both Beijing Foreign Studies University, and China Foreign Affairs University. He holds a Ph.D. in Comparative Education from the Faculty of Education at Beijing Normal University.

Greg William Misaszek

Ph.D., is a Distinguished Professor at Tohoku University’s Graduate School of Education after being an Associate Professor at Beijing Normal University’s Faculty of Education for 12 years. He holds the position of Associate Director at the Paulo Freire Institute, UCLA.

Abstract

The article offers a comprehensive examination of the philosophical origins and evolution of the Chinese concept of Ecological Civilization, tracing its journey from early theoretical underpinnings to its formal adoption as a national strategy. The development of this concept is analyzed in a historical context, beginning with its philosophical roots and progressing through its academic formulation, official endorsement, and subsequent policy implementation. This analysis highlights the transformative role of Pan Yue’s eco-socialism and the influence of Xi Jinping Thought in shaping Ecological Civilization as an innovative model for sustainable development, emphasizing China’s commitment to reconciling economic growth with environmental stewardship. The introduction further explores the transition of Ecological Civilization from an intellectual concept to a central pillar of national governance, noting its growing significance within Chinese political discourse. It contrasts this model with the “America First!” agenda, a framework promoted during the Trump administration, which prioritized national sovereignty and economic interests over global environmental cooperation.

Keywords: Ecological Civilization, China, sustainable development, eco-socialism, Xi Jinping, Pan Yue, ecological governance, environmental policies

 

Introduction: Chinese philosophy and environmental sustainability

The concept of Ecological Civilization (EC) represents a significant philosophical framework that integrates traditional Chinese thought with contemporary environmental challenges. The Chinese Communist Party (CCP) has positioned EC as a cornerstone of "Socialism with Chinese Characteristics," grounding it within Marxist-Leninist ideology. From this perspective, EC emerges as a necessary historical development driven by contradictions between capitalist production and environmental sustainability. This framework shares notable connections with eco-socialism, as both critique capitalist exploitation of nature while advocating for social justice. EC envisions a strong state role in regulating human-nature relationships, aligning with the CCP's centralized governance model. However, critics argue this may serve as a tool for eco-authoritarianism, and tensions exist between EC's sustainability focus and China's economic growth priorities.

Confucian philosophy significantly influences EC through several key principles. The Confucian ideal of harmony (和) between humans and nature resonates with EC's vision of balanced coexistence. Confucianism's holistic worldview sees humans as part of a larger cosmic order, aligning with EC's systemic perspective. Moral virtues emphasized in Confucian thought—benevolence (仁), propriety (礼), and righteousness (义)—parallel EC's focus on ecological consciousness and respect for nature. Additionally, the Confucian anthropocosmic perspective provides philosophical grounding for human-nature interdependence, while its advocacy for moderation aligns with sustainable resource management. EC challenges Western philosophical traditions through its relational ontology that views humans and nature as interconnected, contrasting with Cartesian dualism. Its environmental ethics extend moral consideration beyond humans to include the natural world, reflecting deep ecology and biocentrism. This represents a shift from anthropocentrism toward ecocentrism, recognizing nature's intrinsic value rather than merely its utility for humans.

The framework has significant political implications, particularly in its endorsement of strong state involvement in environmental governance. It also acknowledges limitations in Western scientific rationality, advocating for traditional ecological knowledge and holistic thinking. This creates a philosophical tension between utopian visions of human-nature harmony and concerns about state control. By revitalizing ancient Chinese philosophies like Taoism and Confucianism and applying them to modern ecological challenges, EC presents a distinctive approach to environmental sustainability that merges cultural tradition with contemporary necessity.

The evolution of the official concept

The history and evolution of the concept of an ecological civilization (EC) in China reflects China's evolving environmental consciousness, the adaptation of traditional philosophies to modern challenges, and the Chinese government's efforts to position the country as a leader in sustainable development and environmental governance. It is possible to give a brief sketch of its development according to seven major stages in its development, a hypothetical last stage of system rivalry considered as an antithesis in the dialectics of America First! vs Ecological Civilization: two opposing world systems, basically the “defensive” strategy of America First! withdrawing from the post-war international system with NATO as its collective security foundation, and “socialism with Chinese characteristics” based on an increasing commitment to a program of green modernization (EVs, green infrastructure, green global diplomacy and leadership).  The U.S. with a debt of $35.6 trillion can no longer financially underwrite the Western international system. The scale of the debt represents a significant portion of the U.S. GDP, constituting a deep financial commitment and a heavy burden on the economy, the cost of which is no longer sustainable. High debt levels weaken the U.S.'s ability to influence global economic governance, as it prioritizes internal financial stability over international leadership roles. America First! advocates for a more isolationist and financially conservative policy that focuses on reducing international expenditures to manage the national debt creating the space for China to leverage its comparatively lower debt-to-GDP ratio to expand its influence through initiatives like the Belt and Road Initiative, promoting an alternative model of international engagement.

1. Origins and Early Roots (1970s-1980s): The early foundations of the EC concept can be traced back to the environmental protection discourse that emerged in China during the 1970s and 1980s. This period saw growing concerns about the environmental impact of rapid industrialization and urbanization, that pollution costs of Chinese modernity were unacceptable and likely to increase with a purely industrial development model.
2. Theoretical Development (1990s-2000s): In the 1990s and 2000s, Chinese scholars and policymakers began developing the theoretical underpinnings of the EC concept. Influential thinkers like Ye Qianji, Zhu Guangqian, and Qu Geping played a crucial role in shaping the EC vision, drawing from traditional Chinese philosophies like Taoism and Confucianism.
3. Official Adoption and Institutionalization (2007-2012): The EC concept gained significant momentum during the Hu Jintao administration (2002-2012). In 2007, the concept was officially incorporated into the Communist Party of China's (CPC) constitution and national development plans. The 18th National Congress of the CPC in 2012 further solidified the EC as a national strategy and guiding principle for China's future development.
4. Policy Implementation and Pilot Programs (2013-present): Under the Xi Jinping administration, the EC concept has been operationalized through various policy initiatives, pilot programs, and legislative frameworks. Examples include the establishment of national parks, the promotion of eco-cities and green infrastructure, and the integration of EC principles into the Belt and Road Initiative.
5. International Promotion and Discourse (2010s-present): In recent years, China has actively promoted the EC concept on the international stage, positioning it as a potential solution to global environmental challenges. The EC has been a topic of discussion at various international forums, academic conferences, and bilateral dialogues.
6. Ongoing Debates: While the EC concept has gained significant traction in China, it continues to face debates and challenges. These include questions about its implementation mechanisms, potential conflicts with economic growth priorities, and concerns about eco-authoritarianism and state control over environmental narratives.
7. Ecological Civilization vs America First: The most recent and apparent challenge to China’s ecological civilization development model is that associated with the Trump administration's “drill baby drill” energy policies and the return or retrenchment of the oil and gas economy, including the shift away from renewables in solar and wind power, the denial of climate change and withdrawal from Paris Accord and the production of international environmental goods. The development of the U.S. AI economy and huge data centers requires a massive energy supply. This difference between the modernization pathways of the U.S. and China will be the defining issue of the next five years dominating many related policy areas.

The following section briefly discusses and charts the early founders and the evolution of the concept of ecological civilization, examining the early founders, including Pan Yue’s eco-socialism. Ancient Chinese philosophy and culture provide the foundational emphasis on the value of harmony with the environment. Xi Jinping’s pathway finds a way of integrating or reconciling Marxism with its ancient emphasis on the aesthetics of “beautiful China”. This essay examines the major challenge referred to as system rivalry with the U.S. after Donald Trump’s return to an oil and gas economy, basically a defensive withdrawal from multilateralism and international institutions responsible for global sustainability, to leave China as the major country pursuing the green economy and global ecological leadership.

Early founders: From academic concept to national strategy

The concept of ecological civilization emerged as a transformative framework in China, offering an alternative vision for human development that prioritizes harmony between people and nature. This paradigm shift has evolved through the contributions of several key thinkers and political figures. Xue, [13] indicates that this the first academic paper was Ye Qianji’s who pioneered this concept in his 1987 article “Ecological Needs and the Construction of Ecological Civilization.” Ye identified a critical turning point in human history where traditional models focused on economic growth had reached their ecological limits. He proposed that ecological environments serve as the fundamental basis for human survival and social development, rejecting the false opposition between development and sustainability. Instead, Ye argued that human prosperity could only be secured through harmonious coexistence with natural systems. As Xue [13] explains Ye Qianji (1909–2017) was a Chinese agricultural economist and scholar, recognized as the founder of ecological agriculture theory in China. He graduated from Jinling University and later earned a degree from Cornell University in 1938. As a professor at multiple universities, he authored Ecological Agriculture – The Future of Agriculture. In 1982, he introduced the concept of ecological agriculture, and in 1986, he went on to propose the idea of "ecological civilization", shaping China's environmental policies. Even at 99, he continued teaching and publishing research. He passed away at 108 years old in 2017, leaving a lasting impact on sustainable agriculture.

By 2008, Ye's publication Building an Ecological Civilization had laid the philosophical groundwork for what would eventually become a national strategy. His vision centered on ecological principles, resource conservation, and environmental protection, establishing the foundation for ecological civilization's integration into China's broader political and social discourse. The transition from academic concept to national policy was cemented in 2012 when President Hu Jintao incorporated ecological civilization into The Theoretical System of Socialism with Chinese Characteristics. This pivotal moment legitimized the concept within China's political framework, emphasizing balanced development across economic, social, and environmental dimensions. Hu's endorsement elevated ecological civilization from theoretical discourse to strategic priority, creating institutional momentum that subsequent leaders would build upon.

The transition of ecological civilization from an academic concept to a cornerstone of China’s national policy was cemented in 2012 when President Hu Jintao formally incorporated it into The Theoretical System of Socialism with Chinese Characteristics. This pivotal moment legitimized ecological civilization within China's political framework, embedding it within the Communist Party's long-term development agenda and signaling a shift towards a more balanced model of modernization. By elevating ecological civilization to a strategic priority, Hu’s endorsement provided the institutional momentum that subsequent leaders would build upon, ensuring that environmental sustainability became a central concern in China's governance. Hu Jintao’s endorsement was not merely symbolic but marked a crucial strategic shift that positioned environmental sustainability as a core national priority alongside economic growth and social progress. This transformation institutionalized ecological civilization within China’s governance structures, driving policy reforms across multiple sectors, including industrial regulation, land-use planning, green finance, and renewable energy development. By integrating ecological civilization into its governance philosophy, China redefined its modernization pathway, moving away from a purely GDP-driven model to one that emphasized economic, social, and environmental harmony.

Unlike previous environmental policies that were reactive and sector-specific, ecological civilization provided a systematic approach to sustainability. It emphasized sustainable development by balancing economic expansion with environmental protection, introduced institutional reforms to establish regulatory frameworks for ecological policies, promoted technological innovation in green industries, and encouraged public engagement in environmental conservation. These elements created a more comprehensive strategy that influenced urban planning, industrial transformation, and China’s international commitments to climate change mitigation. Hu Jintao’s formal adoption of ecological civilization laid the groundwork for Xi Jinping’s subsequent expansion of environmental policies. Under Xi’s leadership, ecological civilization evolved from a policy vision into a comprehensive governance strategy. This was reflected in its inclusion in the Chinese Constitution in 2018, the establishment of strict environmental regulations, ambitious pollution control targets, China’s pledge to achieve carbon neutrality by 2060, and the expansion of global environmental leadership through the Belt and Road Initiative’s green development framework. What began as an intellectual and theoretical concept in the 1980s, shaped by scholars like Ye Qianji, was institutionalized at the highest levels of governance. The 2012 endorsement by Hu Jintao was a watershed moment, marking the transition of ecological civilization from environmental discourse to statecraft. This ensured that ecological civilization became an enduring pillar of China’s national strategy for the 21st century, influencing policy direction for decades to come.

Hansen, Li, and Svarverud [4] argue ecological civilization has been written into China's constitution as the ideological framework for environmental policies, laws, and education. They argue that it functions as a "sociotechnical imaginary" combining cultural and moral virtues with technological, judicial, and political goals. This framework seeks to construct a sense of cultural and national continuity while positioning China at the center of global environmental leadership by invoking its civilization's philosophical heritage.

Collectively, these foundational works reveal the multidimensional nature of ecological civilization—spanning philosophy, ethics, political ideology, policy formulation, and implementation strategies. They demonstrate how the concept evolved from academic discussion to national priority, offering an alternative development pathway that attempts to balance human needs with ecological boundaries. While questions remain about the practical viability of such a far-reaching civilizational transformation, these pioneers established a substantive foundation for ongoing research, debate, and assessment as China's ecological civilization thinking continues to evolve and potentially influence global sustainability efforts.

Pan Yue’s eco-socialism

Pan Yue discusses the concept of ecosocialism and its relevance to addressing China’s environmental crises in an interview. At the time Pan Yue was deputy director of China’s State Environmental Protection Administration, a post he held from 2003 to 2016, before becoming Vice-President of the Central Academy of Socialism, and later Vice-Minister of the Ministry of Environmental Protection. In 2021 he was elected as an alternative member of the Central Committee of the Chinese Communist Party at the 19^th CCP Congress becoming a full member in 2022.

He criticizes the capitalist system as a fundamental cause of the global environmental crisis, highlighting how developed nations have offloaded their economic crises through environmental degradation, disproportionately affecting poorer nations. Pan Yue points out that while both capitalism and socialism have historically driven industrialization, he believes socialism inherently aligns better with ecological principles due to its emphasis on fairness, morality, and balanced development. Pan Yue identifies ecosocialism as emerging from a critique of Western industrial civilization, noting its roots in colonialism which enabled developed nations to externalize their social and economic contradictions at the expense of the environment. He argues that ecosocialism provides a theoretical foundation for fair international environmental policies and could inform China's development strategies to avoid the pitfalls of Western industrial models.

In addressing China’s specific situation, Pan Yue asserts that China's rapid economic growth has condensed a century’s worth of environmental degradation into just two decades, making China a major consumer and polluter on a global scale. He criticizes the transfer of pollution from developed to developing countries and within China from more affluent eastern regions to poorer western ones. Pan Yue calls for a new type of industrialization in China that avoids “environmental colonialism” and promotes a balanced, equitable development strategy. He envisions ecological civilization as a new phase of human development that transcends traditional industrial models by integrating eco-socialist principles, sustainable resource use, and a harmonious relationship between economic growth and environmental preservation. Pan Yue emphasizes the need for comprehensive changes across politics, economics, society, culture, and theoretical frameworks to achieve this transformation in China, ultimately advocating for a globally just environmental and economic order.

Pan Yue argued for the application of Marxist theory to combat production and lifestyle practices that hinder ecological civilization, positing socialism as ideally suited to foster the systemic motivation and security needed for such a civilization. He believed that due to China's vulnerability to ecological destruction and its inability to avoid the impacts of climate change, it should lead the global pursuit of ecological civilization—a stance supported by its traditional culture's strong emphasis on nature. The New Statesman named Pan “Person of the Year: The Man Making China Green” in 2007 and is quoted as saying “This [Chinese] miracle will end soon because the environment can no longer keep pace," and that “China has lost almost everything it has gained since the late 1970s due to pollution.”

Pan Yue questions why environmental protection is considered a cultural issue, highlighting that key tenets of traditional Chinese culture, like harmony between humans and nature, are found across various philosophical schools. He points to the Confucian ideal of unity between humans and nature, the Daoist reflection of nature in the Dao, and the Buddhist view of equality among all living beings as foundational principles that have sustained Chinese culture for millennia and can be instrumental in averting environmental crises and fostering a harmonious society. Pan Yue advocates for developing an ecological culture within China and promoting an ecological civilization globally. He notes that although environmental laws exist in China, they lack effective implementation due to the absence of a supportive ecological culture—a challenge not unique to China but prevalent in the West too. He suggests that cultivating an ecological culture, leveraging Chinese philosophical values and insights, is essential to address the urgent ecological issues facing China and the world.

Modern Western civilization, with its industrial and technological advancements, has historically prioritized progress and growth, often at the expense of environmental health. This viewpoint underscores the need for a critical reassessment of these foundational cultural and civilizational values to address and mitigate the ecological challenges posed by modernity.

Xi Jinping thought on ecological civilization: A new model for sustainable development

Xi Jinping’s vision of ecological civilization represents a fundamental transformation in how China approaches environmental governance, economic development, and global sustainability. Rooted in both traditional Chinese philosophy and socialist ideals, ecological civilization seeks to harmonize human activities with natural systems, marking a strategic shift towards sustainable development. This approach emerged as a central pillar of China’s national development strategy under Xi’s leadership, integrating environmental considerations into governance at all levels. His policy framework has elevated ecological concerns from a secondary issue to a guiding principle, shaping policies on pollution control, conservation, and green development. The integration of ecological civilization into the Communist Party of China’s (CPC) ideological framework has institutionalized environmental governance as a long-term national priority. This transformation was formally recognized when the concept was incorporated into the CPC’s Constitution in 2012 and later into China’s national Constitution in 2018 [7]. Xi Jinping has described these changes as “historic, turning, and overall,” signifying a profound shift in China’s approach to environmental protection [5]. His strategy has been guided by key principles such as the "Ten Adherences," "Four Major Transitions," and "Five Major Relationships," which provide a systematic approach to integrating ecological considerations into economic and social development [13].

The philosophical foundation of ecological civilization is deeply embedded in Chinese culture. Xi has frequently referenced classical texts such as the Book of Changes, Dao De Jing, and the works of Mencius, which emphasize the unity of heaven, earth, and humanity [11]. This historical perspective reinforces the idea that sustainability is not a modern invention but rather a revival of an ancient worldview that prioritizes balance between human society and nature. Historically, governance systems in China have included environmental management mechanisms, from ancient warden systems to contemporary state-led conservation policies. By aligning modern policies with traditional values, Xi’s vision presents ecological civilization as both a cultural revival and a necessary response to contemporary environmental challenges. The impact of ecological civilization as a policy framework is evident in China's environmental achievements. By 2022, China had reduced PM2.5 concentrations in major cities by 57%, increased forest coverage to over 24%, and established its first five national parks [5]. These milestones demonstrate the government’s commitment to reversing decades of environmental degradation while promoting long-term sustainability. The concept of “Chinese modernization with harmonious coexistence between humanity and nature” was officially articulated at the 20th National Congress of the CPC in 2022, further cementing ecological civilization as a central element of China’s development model [12].

Beyond domestic policies, Xi’s ecological vision has significant global implications. China’s leadership in environmental diplomacy was showcased in the Kunming Declaration, which set the theme “Ecological Civilization: Building a Shared Future for All Life on Earth” [2]. This international initiative reflects China’s ambition to shape global environmental governance by promoting sustainability as a universal goal. Additionally, China's engagement in the Paris Agreement and its pledge to achieve carbon neutrality by 2060 highlight the country’s evolving role as a leader in climate action [8]. However, China’s rapid economic growth has created ongoing environmental challenges, including desertification, soil erosion, and groundwater pollution. Addressing these issues requires a transition from remediation-focused governance to a proactive, systematic environmental management approach, as emphasized in the “Four Major Transitions” outlined by Xi [13].

Xi Jinping Thought on Ecological Civilization represents a significant departure from previous policies that prioritized economic growth above environmental considerations. By integrating Marxist ecological thought, traditional Chinese environmental philosophy, and modern sustainability principles, this approach promotes a model of development that is both environmentally responsible and economically viable [14]. The 19th National Congress of the CPC marked a critical moment in this transformation by formally establishing ecological civilization as a core component of China’s national development strategy [10]. Following this, China implemented strict pollution controls, expanded biodiversity conservation efforts, and accelerated investments in renewable energy, reinforcing its commitment to ecological sustainability.

At the global level, Xi’s ecological vision aligns closely with China’s Belt and Road Initiative (BRI), where sustainability standards are increasingly being incorporated into overseas infrastructure projects. This demonstrates China’s ambition to export its green development model, influencing environmental governance beyond its borders [1]. However, challenges remain, particularly regarding balancing industrial expansion with environmental conservation. Concerns have been raised about the enforcement of environmental regulations, potential inconsistencies in green policies, and the real-world effectiveness of sustainable development initiatives [3]. Despite these hurdles, China’s systematic approach to ecological civilization suggests a long-term commitment to sustainability that extends beyond short-term policy cycles.

The ideological foundation of ecological civilization is a synthesis of traditional Chinese wisdom, Marxist ecological perspectives, and modern scientific insights [6]. By advocating for comprehensive environmental governance, resource efficiency, and ecological restoration, Xi’s vision seeks to create a sustainable development model that integrates environmental consciousness into all aspects of governance. This perspective challenges conventional industrial models that rely on extractive practices, instead promoting a green economy where sustainability and economic progress are mutually reinforcing. Xi’s vision for ecological civilization is deeply intertwined with his broader modernization agenda. By embedding environmental principles into China’s development trajectory, the government aims to build a future where economic growth does not come at the expense of ecological stability. This approach reflects a commitment to fostering a harmonious relationship between human society and nature, ensuring that modernization aligns with long-term sustainability goals. Xi Jinping Thought on Ecological Civilization is more than a policy framework—it represents a holistic transformation in how China engages with development, governance, and global environmental leadership. By integrating ecological consciousness into national and international policies, China seeks to establish itself as a global leader in sustainability. The success of this initiative will not only determine China’s environmental future but will also shape global discourse on sustainable development for years to come.

Ecological civilization vs. America first

Donald Trump’s first presidential term prioritized domestic fossil fuel production, withdrew the United States from the Paris Agreement, and emphasized short-term economic gains over long-term sustainability. These policies set back global climate efforts by promoting a carbon-intensive development model, yet they did not completely halt environmental progress. Many U.S. states, cities, and corporations continued to implement sustainability initiatives, maintaining some momentum in climate action despite federal rollbacks. However, the long-term consequences of Trump’s energy policies included increased fossil fuel dependency, slower adoption of electric vehicles, and strained international relations due to trade tensions. Additionally, the U.S.'s investments in artificial intelligence (AI) and emerging technologies presented a paradox: while they had the potential to drive innovation, they also risked exacerbating inequalities and increasing energy demand if not managed sustainably.

In response to Trump’s "America First" and "drill baby drill" policies, China and other global actors have an opportunity to advance ecological civilization through a multifaceted strategy. The deepening of the Western oil-based industrial model provides China with a diplomatic and economic opening to accelerate renewable energy investments, strengthen its position in global climate leadership, and expand technology-sharing initiatives. Through the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI), China can prioritize sustainable infrastructure projects, positioning itself as a leader in green development. By championing international climate forums such as the UNFCCC and COP meetings, China can fill the leadership void left by the U.S., reinforcing multilateral agreements and advocating for more ambitious Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs). This diplomatic engagement would not only enhance China's international influence but also reinforce the credibility of ecological civilization as a development model.

China can further consolidate its leadership through economic and trade strategies that incentivize decarbonization. Expanding its national carbon market, promoting green finance instruments such as green bonds, and aligning with mechanisms like the EU’s Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism (CBAM) would allow China to shape the global economic landscape in favor of sustainability. Redirecting both public and private investments away from fossil fuels and into renewable energy sectors could position China as the dominant supplier of clean technologies. Strategic investments in battery storage, hydrogen energy, and smart grid infrastructure would further enhance China’s influence in the transition toward a low-carbon global economy.

Beyond economic and policy measures, China’s role in technological innovation and international collaboration can accelerate the global green transition. Establishing research partnerships on breakthroughs in renewable energy, AI-driven sustainability solutions, and environmental monitoring can enhance cooperation across borders. Platforms like Mission Innovation offer avenues for China to drive international efforts in energy storage, carbon capture, and grid efficiency. Open-source knowledge-sharing and the creation of international hubs for green technology patents, particularly in collaboration with developing nations, could reinforce China's ecological civilization narrative while fostering economic development in the Global South. China's soft power also has an important role to play in promoting ecological consciousness at the societal level. Supporting environmental NGOs, youth movements such as Fridays for Future, and grassroots sustainability initiatives can help strengthen global civil society mobilization. Integrating ecological literacy into education systems and launching public awareness campaigns can shift consumer behavior toward sustainability, reinforcing long-term commitments to green development.

A second Trump administration would further widen the divergence between U.S. and Chinese environmental policies, creating both challenges and opportunities. As America retreats from climate leadership and embraces a renewed fossil fuel-centric industrial model, China has a unique moment to position ecological civilization as a viable alternative. By reinforcing multilateral climate diplomacy, expanding renewable technology markets, and deepening environmental cooperation with the EU, ASEAN, and African Union, China can strengthen its influence in shaping global sustainability standards. This diplomatic opportunity extends to vulnerable nations disproportionately affected by climate change. By increasing climate adaptation assistance to small island states, drought-prone African nations, and other at-risk regions, China can demonstrate ecological civilization as a practical development model beyond its own borders. These efforts would not only yield long-term geopolitical benefits but also reinforce China’s credibility as a leader in global climate governance.

The U.S.-China energy divide creates substantial economic opportunities for China in green technology markets. While the U.S. focuses on reviving fossil fuel industries, China can scale up production of renewable energy technologies, electric vehicles, and smart grid systems. By driving down costs through mass production and establishing industry standards, China can cement its position as the global supplier of clean energy solutions. This could be particularly advantageous in trade negotiations, as countries seeking to decarbonize may find China a more reliable partner than a U.S. increasingly focused on fossil fuel exports.

The Belt and Road Initiative could also be strategically reoriented to emphasize green infrastructure, providing partner countries with sustainable alternatives to fossil fuel-intensive projects. By integrating ecological civilization principles into BRI investments—prioritizing solar, wind, and hydropower projects alongside climate-resilient infrastructure—China can showcase the practical applications of its development philosophy while securing long-term economic and diplomatic advantages. As the U.S. weakens environmental regulations, China has an opportunity to strengthen its own environmental governance both domestically and internationally. Developing sophisticated carbon markets, stringent environmental standards, and advanced green finance mechanisms could set new benchmarks that eventually become global standards. The EU’s willingness to expand carbon pricing creates potential for alignment between European and Chinese climate policies, potentially disadvantaging U.S. exports produced under weaker environmental regulations.

Chinese financial institutions can simultaneously develop green bond markets, sustainable investment taxonomies, and climate risk disclosure requirements that direct capital flows toward ecological civilization-aligned projects. This financial architecture would not only reinforce China's green industrial policy but also influence global capital markets, restricting investment in American fossil fuel ventures while channeling funds into renewable industries. However, this strategic landscape is complex and requires careful navigation. China must balance its own domestic development needs, including its continued reliance on coal, with its global ecological civilization messaging. To maintain credibility, ecological civilization must deliver tangible benefits—cleaner air, improved ecosystems, greater energy security, and economic prosperity—rather than merely serve as an ideological counterpoint to U.S. policies. Moreover, China must avoid being perceived as exploiting environmental issues for geopolitical gain. Instead, it should maintain openness to cooperation with U.S. states, cities, businesses, and civil society groups that remain committed to climate action despite federal policies. Strengthening these relationships could prove beneficial in future shifts in U.S. leadership.

The contrasting environmental strategies of China’s ecological civilization and Trump’s "America First" agenda represent competing visions for global development. While America’s fossil fuel resurgence may provide short-term economic gains, China’s strategy positions it advantageously for the long-term shift toward a post-carbon economy. By steadily implementing ecological civilization policies and promoting them internationally, China can transform the U.S. policy retreat into an opportunity to reshape global environmental leadership. The ultimate test of this strategy lies in its effectiveness. If China can demonstrate that ecological civilization leads to tangible improvements in environmental and economic well-being, it will solidify its model as a credible alternative to Western development paradigms. Success in this endeavor would not only redefine China's global image but also influence how the world understands modernization and sustainability in the 21st century.

In the next four years, the key question will be how the divergent environmental policies of China and the U.S. shape global green technology leadership and international climate cooperation. As Gao Wen [9] argues, “The digital economy, driven by AI as a major engine, is becoming a crucial force in promoting global economic recovery and sustainable development.” If China successfully integrates AI, green technology, and ecological civilization into its development strategy, it could redefine global leadership in sustainability and economic transformation.

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Suggested citation note

Peters, M., Green, B., and Misaszek, G. (2026). China’s Ecological Civilization: A new model for green modernization and global leadership. Ecopoiesis: Eco-Human Theory and Practice, 7 (2). [open access internet journal]. – URL: http://ecopoiesis.ru (d/m/y)