China’s Relocation Policy

What is China’s rationale for moving so much of its

rural population into cities?

Why are some Chinese opposed to the

urbanization initiative?

What are some effects accelerated urbanization will

have on Chinese culture?

Consider your opinion: would you be a proponent or opponent of the policy?

Consider again the Three Gorges Dam

The Trade-Off?• A price tag of $25 billion U.S. dollars • The 440 mile reservoir that was created eliminated

more than 100 towns and over 1,000 historical sites, and forced 1.2 million people to move– Industrial sites that are now underwater may leak

hazardous chemicals• The change in the river’s depth and flow has altered

the river’s ecology and making a living through fishing is no longer feasible for many who live along the river

In 30 years, another planet earth will be needed for China’s

appetite for raw materials

• China currently consumes:– 1/3 of the world’s steel– ½ of the world’s concrete

• 70 % of China’s lakes and rivers are polluted• 1/3 of the country is consistently exposed to

acid rain• There is an increasing number of premature

deaths from diseases like to air pollution

• Pollution travels! Up to 25% of smoke, soot and pollutants in Los Angeles, CA can be

traced to China!

Pudong – China’s financial center in 2013

• THE question facing China…

How can China curb pollution and resource consumption without crippling the economy?

(…because an economic slowdown could lead to

social/political instability!)

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