Jinan, capital of East China's Shandong province, will focus on ecological conservation as part of its efforts to promote high-quality development in 2025, according to the city's government work report, which was unveiled at the fourth session of the 18th Jinan Municipal People's Congress on Jan 13.

Jinan will strengthen efforts in ecological restoration and environmental protection as well as stepping up green and low-carbon transformation efforts, the report said.

Strategies include the ongoing transformation of industries such as cement and coking to achieve ultra-low emissions, increased management of volatile organic compounds, enhanced response to severe air pollution, and regional cooperation. The phase-out of non-operational diesel trucks failing to meet National III emission standards is underway, as the city seeks to meet the province's air quality improvement targets.

Significant initiatives are being pursued, such as the investigation and rectification of river discharge outlets and the protection of drinking water.

To boost ecological protection and restoration, the city will take measures to enhance control of river and lake shorelines, optimize nature reserve integration, and embark on a vigorous campaign to strengthen the ecological protection and governance of the Yellow River.

To push forward green and low-carbon transformation, the city aims to achieve a reduction in carbon emissions as per national targets and meet the 14.8 percent reduction in energy consumption goals outlined in the 14th Five-Year Plan period (2021-25). It will expedite the shutdown of inefficient coal-fired power units and develop solar energy, hydrogen energy, and other new energy sources tailored to local conditions.

Efforts will be made to promote low-carbon transformation in industrial parks as well as energy-saving renovations in existing residential and public buildings. The city is striving to become a "zero waste city" and enhance public awareness of ecological conservation and environmental protection, hoping to foster a green and low-carbon lifestyle among its residents.