"It is a fact that environmental pollution is a challenge for cities around the globe and we are all attaching great importance to how we treat the environment. That is why a major consensus has been reached globally to save the environment," said Fu Jihong, Deputy Director General of the Shanghai Municipal Foreign Affairs Office, while referring to efforts being made worldwide for environmental conservation.
He added that Shanghai, which is fast becoming the nerve centre of the economic world, is working towards sharing its experiences, best practices as well as the latest technology in the field of environmental conservation with partner cities.
Beijing in China and New Delhi in India are among the world's worst polluted cities. Shanghai, China's most populous city - home to 24 million people - is also witnessing worsening air quality.
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In 2015, Shanghai government managed to convert almost 25 square miles of the city into green areas.
Highlighting that Shanghai will continue its efforts towards environmental conservation in 2016 as well, Fu said, "Green development is the mainstream idea in development. We must ensure that the development is sustainable and environment friendly. We will continue to protect our environment, making sure that the development is sustainable while working towards conservation of our resources."
The megalopolis plans to curb the number of vehicles, create more green spaces, and work with factories to reduce emissions.
on green development, Fu said, "When it comes to environment protection, we must acknowledge that every city is different, with its own features and characteristics. The treatment of the environment must also take into consideration the specific needs of the city as well as the development requirements of the city. But I think the latest and advanced technologies and best practices can definitely be shared with India."
Notably, green energy and climate change are areas where China can collaborate with India as the world looks for green alternatives to fossil fuels.