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China's Degraded Environment Enters A New Normal
Ke Zhang1, John A Dearing2, Shilu L Tong3
1Australian Research Council Centre of Excellence for Coral Reef Studies, James Cook University, Townsville, QLD 4811, Australia.
Trends in Ecology & Evolution
|January 13, 2016
Summary
China
Area of Science:
- Environmental Science
- Sociology
- Development Studies
Background:
- China is experiencing rapid social and ecological transformations.
- These shifts signal future challenges for developing nations worldwide.
- Degraded environments in China are becoming a widespread reality.
Purpose of the Study:
- To highlight the profound social and ecological changes in China.
- To underscore the implications of these shifts for developing countries.
- To emphasize the need to recognize the economic costs of environmental degradation.
Main Methods:
- Qualitative analysis of social and ecological trends in China.
- Comparative assessment of environmental degradation impacts.
- Economic valuation of ecosystem services and degradation.
Main Results:
- China's environmental degradation presents a "new normal" scenario.
- Developing nations are likely to face similar ecological challenges.
- The economic costs associated with environmental damage are frequently underestimated.
Conclusions:
- Acknowledging China's environmental reality is crucial for informed policy-making.
- Recognizing the true costs of degradation is essential for sustainable development.
- Proactive strategies are needed to address escalating environmental issues globally.
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