The Roots of China's Environment/ Development Conundrum

Since China’s economic reform programs began, its rapid economic growth has lifted over five hundred million people out of poverty.  This accomplishment has been achieved at the price of great risk to national and regional environmental stability threatening the well-being of those living in damaged areas.  While China has some of the most stringent and progressive environmental legislation in the world, their effectiveness is hampered by lax enforcement.  Professor Hardiman highlights the challenges and opportunities for China as it faces the economic-environmental conundrum.