Youth leaders from more than 10 European Union countries traveled to south China's Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area (GBA) to witness China's efforts in combating climate change and developing the green economy first-hand.
The visit was organized in honor of the 50th anniversary of China-EU diplomatic relations and the 10th anniversary of the Paris Agreement.
During their visit, young people from EU countries such as France, Germany, and Spain gained a better understanding of China's cutting-edge, clean energy technologies, including offshore wind power.
"It's incredible what they're doing right now, not only creating one of the most incredible companies are globally because of what they are doing, transforming the energy with the R and D department and the way that they are moving forward and trying to solve or to give the answers to the challenges of the (energy) demand, but also the way that they are running that global strategy," said Jacob Pombo Garcia, President of Global Youth Leadership Forum.
Visitors said they were impressed at the integration of energy-saving and emission-reduction technologies in the construction and operation of mega-projects in the GBA, such as the Shenzhen-Zhongshan Link and the Hong Kong-Zhuhai-Macau Bridge. These included reducing cement usage, optimizing lighting control, and protecting marine life and migratory birds.
The accomplishments serve as inspiration as the youth leaders eye future cooperative efforts between the EU and China in tackling climate issues.
"The most intriguing part is how the tunnel also can be used for public transport. I got the answer that it's already been used for buses since the construction is completed. I think definitely climate change is an issue that only can be combated globally, and especially China also has a role in it as a strong economic nation. (We) definitely need and want to work together," said Kiara Welsch, spokeswoman of Linksjugend Solid, a youth organization in Germany.
Youth leaders from EU witness China's efforts in promoting green technology
Youth leaders from EU witness China's efforts in promoting green technology
