(Photo: CGTN)

China will strengthen efforts to prevent and control pollution and boost environmental protection, according to the government work report delivered by Chinese Premier Li Keqiang at the second session of the 13th National People's Congress (NPC) on Tuesday.

Substantial targets have been achieved in China's battle to ensure a better environment. In recent years, the country has intensified efforts to reduce air, water and soil pollution.

"This year, sulfur dioxide and nitrogen oxide emissions will be cut by three percent, and there will be a continuous decline in PM2.5 density in key areas," said Li, adding that air pollution in and around the Beijing-Tianjin-Hebei region, in the Yangtze River Delta, and in the Fenhe-Weihe River Plain area will be further curbed.

Strong action will be taken to treat three major sources of pollution: industrial production, coal, and motor vehicles.

In order to control water and soil pollution, a two-percent reduction in both chemical oxygen demand and ammonia nitrogen emissions is expected this year. The work to clean up contaminated water bodies will be accelerated. Vital river basins and offshore areas will be cleaned-up. Also, efforts of sorting solid waste and urban garbage disposal will be upgraded.

Li also highlighted the responsibility of enterprises – "the primary actors," in environment protection.

While enterprises should be overseen in compliance with laws and regulations, their justified concerns should be heeded, and the government will provide better assistance and guidance.

Meanwhile, "Green development is a critical element of modernizing an economy and also a fundamental solution to pollution," said Li, emphasizing that green and environmental protection industries should be strengthened.

China will fasten the pace of upgrading the thermal power, steel and other industries, as well as enforce upgrades in heavy-polluting sectors to achieve compliance with standards.

More efforts will be taken on the full use of clean energy, the development of urban sewer networks and treatment facilities, and the construction of eco-friendly buildings.

China will also step up efforts to protect and restore ecosystems.

Li called on everyone to work together to create a beautiful and conducive environment.