Discussions at the meeting covered such issues as economic development and environmental protection, both at home and abroad, particularly energy strategy, resource prices, investment in environmental protection, etc. Meanwhile, special attention was given to discussions on issues concerning population, soil erosion an d desertification, conservation of water resources, pollution control and treatment of waste materials, transportation system and policy, China's role in global environmental issues and the importance of scientific research, technology and education. Some constructive suggestions and recommendations were made.
a. A new concept must be formed, i.e. the conservation of the environment should not be a burden on economic development. So long as we adopt correct policies, principles and methods, make the most of related policies and technologies and sciences, we are sure to solve the problems in environmental protection and sustainable development. Moveover, efforts should be made to strengthen the work of publicity and education so that the government and people will be sober-minded in their understanding of, responsible in their attitude toward and conscientious in their action concerning the issue under consideration.
b. China's energy structure and the way of its energy exploitation and utilization are not rational enough, the energy consumption for per unit GNP staying very high and energy efficiency remaining relatively low. It is very likely that Chin a reduces its per unit NGP energy consumption greatly while continuing to increase its GNP, if advanced and suitable technologies are used and technological and economic policies and management policies advantageous for energy saving and energy efficiency are formulated. This will help to improve China's environment.
c. Strengthen the integration of policies in the fields of environment and development, set up macro-management mechanisms for coordinated development and further bring into play the enthusiasm of various departments concerned for environmental protection.
d. Institute, as soon as possible, a resource accounting and pricing system, including environment resources, and take into consideration both renewable and non -renewable resources. Only when a set of mechanisms favourable for the rational utilization of natural resources in tax collection and pricing is set up, can it be possible for us to make full use of and renew our limited resources.
e. Serious environmental problems, such as land degradation, water pollution, etc., exist in China's agricultural production and township enterprises, casting a direct impact on the agro-ecological basis. To solve this problem, it is not feasible at present to depend solely on new and high technology in the rural areas. Only by combining hi-tech with traditional agricultural technology and by a rational and scientific organization, can we make the rural economy achieve sustainable development while conserving and improving the rural agro-ecological environment.
Discussions were also held on the possibility of future cooperation and on follow-up actions. In principle, the Council will meet once a year to study the achievement reports of the Expert Working Groups and decide on new goals. Efforts will be made to achieve new success and progress. It is decided that the second meeting of the Council will be held in Hangzhou city from May 3rd to 5th, 1993. Following the Council session, all members are to return to Beijing for a further 2 days for high level discussion with the Chinese Government.
Throughout the meeting, open and frank exchanges and discussions on a number of major environmental issues were carried out in a most friendly and pleasant atmosphere. The Council members came to the same view that the cooperation is sure to become successful so long as we work in the spirit of sincerity and make combined effort.
