Review on Natural Resources Utilization in China

Natural resources are fundamental requirements for development.  Even though with abundant natural resources, China is encountering the most difficult situation to preserve the natural resources while keeping the economic growth and social development. Currently in China, the majority (about 93%) of energy consumption is fossil fuels, for example coal, petroleum and natural gas.  Owing to fast industrialization and urbanization, the needs for fossil fuels are getting higher and higher.  In order to ensure energy security, it is necessary to reform the energy structure and to find alternative energy sources, due to rapid depletion of natural resources.  In addition, the Chinese Government is under tremendous pressure in seeking harmonic balance between economic growth, social development and environmental protection.  Through literature review and survey, the purpose of this study is to review the status of natural resources utilizations, to analyze the natural resources management system, to summarize existing problems during natural resources exploitation and utilizations, and then to provide appropriate and feasible recommendations for future improvement.