Govt pledges to redouble efforts to protect, restore environment

China will cut sulfur dioxide and nitrogen oxide emissions by 3 percent this year and bring about a steady decline in the concentration of fine airborne particles in key areas, according to Premier Li Keqiang.

"We have established the notion that clear waters and lush mountains are invaluable assets, and have acted with resolve and intensity as never before to strengthen environmental protection," Li said on Monday while delivering the Government Work Report at the annual legislative session.

Significant achievements have been made over the past five years, he said, noting that both energy and water consumption per unit of GDP have fallen more than 20 percent. Emissions of major pollutants have consistently declined, and the number of days with heavy air pollution in key cities has been halved, he said.