(China Daily)
Updated: 2007-12-15 11:16

As expected, the curtain fell on this year's "Green Chinese" awards yesterday with nine people being honored for their contributions to our environment.

Though from different walks of life, the winners have one thing in common: They are determined to dedicate themselves to environmental protection.

They have set a good example to others and enhanced our faith in turning our country into a greener and more livable place.

Organizers of the government-initiated event, now in its third year, should be gratified at its growing influence in raising social awareness of environmental issues.

In this country, where environmental problems have been acute, public awareness could become a powerful force promoting environmental protection.

Public participation and supervision is an indispensable part of the country's efforts in addressing its environmental woes.

Thanks to the influence of events such as the "Green Chinese" awards, public opinion is having a greater influence on issues related to the environment.

Controversies over the behavior of some celebrities during this year and last year's award selection could be a case in point.

The public was critical of last year's nomination of two film and television directors who were held responsible for environmental damage their crews made when filming at famous scenic spots.

Public pressure has sent shockwaves among celebrities and it is believed that many of them are now more conscious of the fact that their public image could only worsen if they fail to pay attention to the environment.

This year, a pair of different film directors were singled out again, but not as bad examples. Their winning of these awards could help improve how the public views people in their field.

Public opinion has also played a greater role in contributing views to the government's assessment of projects that may have an impact on the environment.

In a latest example, the majority of the speakers attending an open forum this week in Xiamen opposed a government proposal to build a chemical plant in the city.

The project has been stalled since May after residents expressed concern over its possible environmental impact on the beautiful coastal city.