Due to growing urbanization and resulting environmental threats, China has invested nearly US$50 billion annually into its renewable energy sector since 2009. China's five-year investment in environmental protection is on track to reach 3.1 trillion yuan (US$454 billion). By 2015, its environmental protection industry is expected to top 2 trillion yuan (US$317 billion).

China will introduce favorable tax and financial policies to support the development of its green economy, according to its 12th five-year plan, which started last year. A strong “green” policy is essential if China is to maintain its rapid and sustainable growth. "China will build a good fund raising environment for companies to develop green technologies by establishing green technology investment and related equity funds," said Wang Yuqing, deputy director of the Committee of Population, Resources and Environment of the CPPCC National Committee. 

The transition to a global green economy may generate a large market exceeding US$1 trillion. During the 12th five-year plan period, the Chinese government will invest US$468 billion in green sectors compared to US$211 billion over the previous five-year period, with a focus on three sectors: waste recycling and re-utilization; clean technologies; and renewable energy. With this amount of public investment, China's environmental protection industry is expected to continue growing at an average of 15 to 20 percent per year, and its industrial output is expected to reach US$743 billion, up from US$166 billion in 2010. The multiplier effect of this emerging sector is estimated to be 8 to 10 times larger than other industry sectors.

However, Chinese green companies, especially privately-held ones, are facing difficulties in gaining support from capital markets and depend mainly on funds and subsidies provided by the government. Industry experts are advising these companies to seek funding sources outside of the country, including sovereign investment and national funds. The Swiss government, for example, has established funds to support the development of the low carbon sector in China.

During the recent 4th China International Forum on Green Development held in Guangxi province, industry experts gave speeches on a wide range of subjects, including energy conservation, emission reduction, corporate responsibility and green energy. The cities' commitments to reduce emissions play an important role in China’s green development. "According to official statistics, nearly three quarters of China's carbon dioxide emissions are released from its cities annually, and the top 100 cities make up 51.3 percent of the total emissions per year," said Niu Wenyuan, a counselor to the State Council.

An industry analyst pointed out that China would face challenges in raising funds for the development of its green economy. According to the United Nations Environment Program, US$750 billion per year from 2010 to 2030 is required to support the transition to a global green economy — and the figure jumps to US$1.6 trillion per year from 2030 to 2050. From 2007 to 2008, non-OECD countries renewables investment jumped from 29 to 40 percent of the world’s total, with the lion’s share coming from just three countries: China, India and Brazil.