In a major development for environmental infrastructure, China’s water sector is set to wrap up 2025 with over 12.848 trillion yuan invested in conservation efforts. Announced by Water Resources Minister Li Guoying during the National Water Conservation Work Conference in Beijing on January 5 and 6, this figure continues a streak of four years where annual investments have exceeded 10 trillion yuan.
The ambitious program encompasses 47,563 water conservation projects nationwide, creating 3.15 million employment opportunities. These jobs span construction, engineering, and maintenance roles, injecting vitality into local economies.
Key accomplishments in 2025 include bolstering national water networks, enhancing disaster preparedness against floods and droughts, rehabilitating river and lake ecosystems, and pioneering digital twin technologies for water systems. These multifaceted advancements demonstrate a holistic approach to water governance.
As China grapples with erratic weather patterns and rising water stress, such investments are crucial. They not only mitigate immediate risks but also build adaptive capacity for future generations. The digital twin initiative, in particular, promises real-time monitoring and predictive analytics, revolutionizing how water resources are managed.
Looking ahead, the ministry plans to scale up these efforts, integrating AI and big data for even greater efficiency. This conference recap signals a new era where water security is intertwined with technological innovation and economic growth, setting a benchmark for other nations facing similar challenges.