As a multi-department work outcome, Opinions on Accelerating the Ecological Progress (hereinafter referred to as the Opinions) was submitted recently, expecting to build 100 ecological demonstration zones in the country. Ecological demonstration zones not only will enjoy ecological compensation, transfer payments, and financial incentives, but also may prepare the natural balance sheets.

　　Ecological progress not only matters to the livelihood of the people, but also emerges as a propeller to economic transformation and upgrading. Analysts expected that ecological demonstration zones will also be favored by investors as free trade zones, from which environmental and landscape companies in these areas will also benefit.

　　Ecological progress necessitates a complete institutional system, according to the Decision of the CPC Central Committee on Major Issues Pertaining to Deepening Reform adopted by the 3rd Plenary Session of 18th CPC Central Committee. Being an important measure to build the system, the Opinions defines the connotation of ecological progress in terms of objectives, content and means, and converges the concept of ecological progress and practice, producing workable policy.

　　It is learned that most importantly, the Opinions suggests creating 100 ecological demonstration zones in the country. In specific, these zones will be built cross regions beyond the administrative division and linked with main functional areas, while taking into account watershed and ecological characteristics. Ecological demonstration zones will enjoy ecological compensation, transfer payments, and financial incentives, and may prepare the natural balance sheets. Government GDP assessment may even been relaxed in certain areas in the zones.  

　　According to the Pilot Demonstration Zone Indicators for National Ecological Progress (Trial) released by the Ministry of Environmental Protection, there are nearly 30 indicators, covering economy, environment, habitat, system, and culture. Against the background of the top-level design of ecological progress, more policy support to ecological demonstration zones is expected.

Insiders said that ecological demonstration zones once established are required to strictly comply with the new Environmental Protection Law and are likely to undertake the environmental tax pilots. By the means of a market economy, the Central Government hopes to eliminate environmental non-compliance companies in these zones and relieve the financial stress for ecological restoration. Under the lifelong environmental accountability system, local governments are motivated to resolve fund issues, and drive ahead the ecological progress within the industrial parks. (Source: www.Xinhuanet.com, December 6)