The fact that sustainable development has become a term frequently used, even in people's everyday conversations is strong evidence that the concept has been widely accepted in the country.

But it is one thing for the concept to gain acceptance in terms of the comprehension of its connotation by policymakers and the general public, and another for it to materialize in economic development and social progress.

The latest report on the country's sustainable development strategy that was published by the Chinese Academy of Sciences on the weekend suggests that there is still much to be desired when it comes to such specific issues as reduction of pollutant discharge, protection of resources and the exercise of thrift in industrial production and urbanization.