Core Viewpoint - The article highlights the ongoing efforts and initiatives in rural environmental improvement in China, particularly focusing on the case of Jinzhong Village in Liupanshui City, Guizhou Province, which has seen significant changes in its living conditions through various government-supported projects [1][3]. Group 1: Environmental Improvement Initiatives - Since 2018, the Chinese government has launched multiple action plans aimed at improving rural living environments, including the "Three-Year Action Plan for Rural Living Environment Improvement" and the "Five-Year Action Plan for Rural Living Environment Improvement (2021-2025)" [1]. - Jinzhong Village has implemented several measures to enhance its living environment, including the ongoing remediation of a 2,800 square meter pond, which is the only pond in the village [3][5]. Group 2: Housing and Sanitation Upgrades - The village is a pilot site for the "Modern Livable Farmhouse Construction" project, supported by 3.25 million yuan in government funding, aimed at renovating traditional houses and sanitation facilities [5][7]. - The renovation process faced initial resistance from villagers, leading to the decision to create a "model room" to demonstrate the benefits of the upgrades [9]. - As a result of the pilot project, all 45 households in the pilot area have completed kitchen renovations, and the village has established a sewage network to manage wastewater from six groups of residents [11]. Group 3: Livestock and Waste Management - The village faces challenges in upgrading livestock facilities, as many residents keep livestock close to their homes, necessitating temporary relocation during renovations [12][14]. - The upgraded livestock facilities include features for separating waste and installing septic tanks, significantly improving the hygiene conditions in the village [16]. Group 4: Community Engagement and Training - The village organizes regular training sessions for women to enhance their domestic skills, promoting cleanliness and community involvement through material rewards and family evaluations [18].

Core Viewpoint - The Shandong Provincial Department of Housing and Urban-Rural Development emphasizes the need for modern, livable rural housing to meet the expectations of farmers for high-quality living conditions, paralleling urban housing initiatives [3][4]. Group 1: Modern Livable Rural Housing Initiative - The Shandong government has initiated a program to promote the construction of modern, livable rural houses, aiming to create a new paradigm of "Lu-style residences" [1][4]. - The construction of modern rural housing is seen as a crucial step towards rural modernization and the revitalization of rural areas, enhancing living conditions and promoting urban-rural integration [4][10]. Group 2: Current Challenges and Economic Basis - Current rural housing faces issues such as outdated construction, low seismic standards, and inadequate living functions, indicating a significant gap between existing conditions and the aspirations of residents for quality housing [3][4]. - By 2024, the per capita disposable income of rural residents in Shandong is projected to reach 25,300 yuan, providing a solid economic foundation for the construction of quality rural housing [3]. Group 3: Design and Construction Standards - The design of modern rural houses will focus on safety, comfort, sustainability, and smart features, with an emphasis on functionality and adherence to national and provincial design standards [4][5]. - The Shandong government plans to enhance the supply of standard design blueprints for rural housing, promoting a "one village, one blueprint" approach to meet local needs [7][10]. Group 4: Green and Sustainable Development - The initiative promotes the use of green building materials and new construction technologies, such as prefabricated concrete and steel structures, which offer advantages in terms of environmental impact, construction time, and seismic performance [10][11]. - There is a strong focus on integrating renewable energy solutions, such as solar energy and geothermal heat pumps, into new rural housing to reduce energy consumption and enhance living comfort [10]. Group 5: Community Engagement and Customization - The program encourages community involvement in the design process, ensuring that housing solutions meet the specific needs of rural residents, including space for agricultural equipment and traditional living arrangements [11]. - The establishment of a "Hundred Institutes Thousand Teachers" initiative aims to connect design professionals with rural communities for tailored support in housing development [10].