张永生：“两山”理念重新定义可持续发展

Core Viewpoint - The "Two Mountains" concept emphasizes the integration of environmental protection and economic development, proposing that they are mutually reinforcing rather than conflicting, which marks a significant shift in development philosophy [2][4]. Group 1: Concept and Philosophy - The "Two Mountains" concept is a distinctive element of Xi Jinping's ecological civilization thought, advocating for a harmonious relationship between environmental protection and economic growth [2]. - This concept challenges the traditional view that sees environmental protection and economic development as opposing forces, suggesting instead that protecting the environment enhances productivity [2][4]. - The "Two Mountains" concept serves as a benchmark for distinguishing between old and new development philosophies, where a belief in conflict indicates traditional thinking, while a belief in mutual promotion indicates a new approach [2]. Group 2: Sustainable Development Redefined - The "Two Mountains" concept redefines sustainable development, proposing that protecting the environment equates to enhancing productivity, thus providing a fundamental solution for sustainable development [4]. - The original definition of sustainable development, as proposed by the UN in 1987, is seen as flawed because it implies an inherent conflict between current and future development [4]. - Achieving the UN's Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) is viewed as challenging under traditional development paradigms, necessitating a return to ecological civilization principles and the "Two Mountains" framework for effective implementation [4]. Group 3: Economic Implications - The current phase of sustainable development is described as a critical juncture, with some nations attributing domestic crises to environmental protection and climate change, which contradicts the principles of green development [5]. - Emphasizing energy conservation and emissions reduction is seen as a pathway to elevate economic structures rather than a hindrance [6]. - The transition from narrow environmental protection to broader ecological civilization construction represents a fundamental shift in development logic, moving beyond traditional industrial civilization frameworks [6]. Group 4: Business Opportunities - Sustainable development is positioned as a significant opportunity for businesses, with the notion that it should not rely solely on moral imperatives but should create substantial commercial prospects [7]. - The integration of Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) criteria is increasingly recognized as a means for companies to discover new technologies and business models, potentially enhancing profitability rather than diminishing it [7]. - Companies are urged to align with the trend of green development, which is seen as a major opportunity, and to redefine the roles of government and market within the context of the "Two Mountains" concept [7].