China’s path to a global ecological civilization: Concepts and practices for sustainable development

China actively fosters practical green cooperation to advance global sustainable development, and strengthens global environmental governance initiatives, including the implementation of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). However, this approach has often positioned China as more of a doer than a talker, leading to insufficient recognition in the international community. Domestic Chinese research has frequently highlighted these issues within the ecological civilization, especially in its global dimension. Building on existing research, this study contends that the disparity in recognition stems from three crucial gaps: a conceptual gap between ecological civilization as a new narrative and established international governance frameworks; a practical gap between how China’s ecological civilization advances sustainable development governance versus international understanding; and a communication gap between its substantial achievements and inadequate communication of these experiences. To address these gaps, this paper recommends that China strengthen its efforts in three key areas: First, maintain strategic resolve by deepening green practices and strengthening corporate environmental standards to advance green norms. Second, promote the global co-construction of ecological civilization and strengthen global governance featuring extensive consultation and joint contributions for shared benefits. Third, enhance fairness, representativeness, and inclusiveness in international sustainable development negotiations. Finally, China, along with Global South countries, should continue advancing global ecological civilization. This serves as both a response to current environmental governance challenges and a long-term pathway toward a global community of shared future.