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Sumra, et al.

Table 12. Priority ranking
Themes Priority ranked elements
1 research question: Eco-civilization footprints China’s struggle in formulizing environmental laws
st
2 research question: Possible implications of the Requirement of Strategic Environmental Assessment system in CPEC
nd
Chinese vision of eco-civilization steps in CPEC projects
Steps for eco-system services and avoid deforestation
3 research question: Roadmap for water Alternative water resources in the areas near CPEC, e.g., desalination
rd
eco-civilization plants
Technological ways for management of scarce natural resources in
residential areas around CPEC projects.
Abbreviation: CPEC: China–Pakistan Economic Corridor.

nations.” The conceptual framework of ecological Infrastructure) and SDG 12 (Responsible Consumption
civilization as a guiding principle illustrates how thought and Production), highlighting the importance of
leadership can drive technological advancements and aligning large-scale development with ecological
institutional governance to build a sustainable future. 25 sustainability. As an industrialist from the experts’ panel
commented, “Ecological civilization in the context of
5.1.2. Second main identified factor of the study: CPEC can bridge infrastructure development with
Ecological civilization and the China–Pakistan environmental goals. Projects like green transportation
Economic Corridor corridors and renewable energy plants within CPEC
The second theme focuses on integrating ecological show promising alignment with SDG targets.” These
civilization principles within the CPEC, a flagship findings indicate that CPEC must institutionalize these
project of the BRI. One of the environmental consultants strategies to transition from an industrial project to an
highlighted, “CPEC provides a unique opportunity to environmentally conscious initiative.
implement China’s ecological civilization principles
beyond its borders. By embedding sustainability in 5.1.3. Third main identified factor of the study: Water
infrastructure projects, CPEC can serve as a testbed for eco-civilization roadmap
replicable green development practices in other regions.” The third theme addresses the critical issue of water
Two critical elements emerged as priorities in this theme: resource management in areas near CPEC. Two key
the implementation of a SEA system and the urgent need elements identified by experts include the development
for ecosystem services to counteract deforestation. In of alternative water resources and the adoption of
the words of a policy analyst, “The ecological dimension advanced technological solutions for water management.
of CPEC must go beyond compliance to embrace In the words of an environmentalist, “Water ecological
proactive green policies, such as integrating renewable civilization requires immediate action, such as
energy solutions into urban planning and ensuring water desalination plants powered by renewable energy, to
resource sustainability in project zones.” According to secure the water supply while minimizing ecological
analysts and environmentalists, the ecological stakes of disruption.” The study emphasizes the potential role of
CPEC demand adherence to international best practices desalination plants in addressing water scarcity, although
to ensure long-term sustainability. A policymaker experts caution that population growth and intensified
emphasized, “CPEC has the potential to be a global development activities necessitate more comprehensive
model for green infrastructure, but this requires strategies. Another environmentalist noted, “Policy
adopting international best practices and ensuring that frameworks must include local community voices to
all stakeholders are committed to sustainability.” balance ecological preservation with socioeconomic
The research underscores the necessity of SEA development. Without inclusivity, even the best-laid
systems to integrate environmental considerations into plans are likely to fail.” This perspective underscores
policymaking, particularly for large-scale infrastructure the importance of participatory governance and
projects like CPEC. In addition, ecosystem services, community engagement in ensuring the success of
such as afforestation and soil conservation, are essential water management initiatives.
to offset environmental degradation. These priorities The study aligns water resource management
26
are directly linked to SDG 9 (Industry, Innovation, and strategies with SDG 6 (Clean Water and Sanitation)

Volume 22 Issue 1 (2025) 18 doi: 10.36922/ajwep.8483