"For the long-term development of our Chinese nation, saving energy and reducing pollution are so important, so urgent," Ma Kai, head of
the State Development and Reform Committee, said in a televised address.
"If we don't change this situation…the economy will go badly and won't go far," he added.
People are being urged to adopt measures that include replacing old light bulbs with energy-efficient ones and turning down air conditioning, as well as drinking less of the Chinese spirit baijiu.
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