China can be a green leader: Former UN Environment chief

Erik Solheim, the former head of the UN Environment Programme, said that by showing the world a green recovery from the pandemic is possible, China can provide global leadership in sustainable development in the post-COVID-19 world.

"If we provide renewable energy rather than coal; if we make electric vehicles and metro systems in the cities, rather than overwhelming them with cars, we provide more jobs and a better life for people, while at the same time take better care of the environment," he said.

He also said China could bring more "green and positive development" to the rest of the world by promoting a green Belt and Road Initiative.

Interviewer: Hou Liqiang

Video editor: Ma Chi

Supervisors: Zhang Chunyan, Wang Jianfen, Xin Dingding and Lei Xiaoxun