In switch to greener mode, Guangxi sees prosperity

The Guangxi Zhuang autonomous region has switched its development mode from resource-consuming to environmentally friendly, according to a senior official.

"We used to pursue economic growth but didn't pay attention to quality and environmental protection," Chen Wu, the region's deputy Party secretary, said during a news conference of the State Council Information Office in Beijing on Thursday. "Traditional industries, such as metals and sugar manufacturing, have contributed to economic growth but also pose great challenges to the environment - water pollution, for example."

Although the region has made great strides in economic growth since its founding 60 years ago, higher-quality development is now being stressed for future sustainable development, he said.