Chinafrica

Despite the progress, China is at a critical juncture in a shift to new economic patterns, said Wu Changhua at this September's Davos Forum at Tianjin. Wu is director for Greater China area of the Climate Group, a UK-based international organization tackling climate change.

Wu said the shift will bring about revolutionary changes to the country's current energy consuming structure, economic growth pattern and people's lifestyles. Without the change, it will be difficult for the fast-growing economy to achieve its high-paced growth.

Another challenge is to develop technologies needed for a low-carbon economy. Compared with developed countries, China is still in a disadvantageous position in market competition in terms of low-carbon technologies.

In addition, public awareness concerning low carbon needs to be raised, especially outside the bigger cities. "We have a lot left to do," said Wu, as not everyone has adopted a low-carbon lifestyle like Zhan's family.

Bank of China	By the end of the first quarter of 2010, the balance of BOC's energy-saving and emission-reducing credit extension exceeded 180 billion yuan ($26.8 billion), with an annual double-digit growth rate
Agricultural Bank of China (ABC)	In 2009, ABC supported 1,803 projects for energy saving and emission reduction, and rejected 83 loan applications due to environmental reasons
Industrial and Commercial Bank of China (ICBC)	By the end of 2009, ICBC had granted loans of nearly 400 billion yuan ($59.7 billion) to energy-saving and environmental protection projects
Construction Bank of China (CBC)	By the end of 2008, CBC had extended 152.5 billion yuan($22.8 billion) loans to renewable energy projects
Bank of Communications	In 2009, the bank granted loans of 57.8 billion yuan ($8.6 billion) to energy-saving and environmental protection projects
China Development Bank (CDB)	In 2009, CDB granted loans of 139 billion yuan ($20.7 billion) to energy-saving and environmental protection projects