Some of the world's most polluted cities are located in China, and residents are speaking out in greater numbers about choking air pollution and contaminated food.
It's no surprise, then, that the government has made the issue a priority, including in its latest five-year plan a series of measures to boost energy sustainability and clean energy.
Unsafe drinking water is also a major problem, and Chinese media outlets have seized on the danger, raising the issue's profile.
Providing sufficient electricity to the nation is another need, said Bloomberg New Energy Finance analyst Nathaniel Bullard. European companies Siemens (SI) and Schneider Electric (SBGSF) have jumped into this area. Others such as GE (GE), California-based solar company Brightsource and Danish wind turbine maker Vestas (VWDRY) have also entered the China market.
Last year, China spent heavily in the sector as clean energy investment hit a record $67.7 billion, up 20% from the previous year, according to BNEF. Dollars are expected to continue pouring in.
