During the 14th Five-Year Plan period (2021-25), Tai'an in Shandong has steadfastly pursued an eco-friendly and green development path. By implementing targeted, science-based, and law-based pollution control measures, the city has achieved leapfrog progress in ecological and environmental protection.

In 2024, Tai'an's PM2.5 and PM10 concentrations decreased by 20.8 percent and 24.4 percent, respectively, compared with 2020 levels, with its comprehensive air quality index consistently ranking among the top inland cities in Shandong province.

The water environmental quality index has ranked third in the province for two consecutive years, while the safe utilization rate of key construction land remains at 100 percent. From January to October this year, PM2.5 concentration improved by 15.8 percent year-on-year, the proportion of days with good air quality increased by 11.7 percentage points, and no heavy pollution days were recorded. The proportion of excellent-quality water bodies in national monitoring sections reached 100 percent, with multiple indicators hitting record highs since monitoring began.

Supporting development through green transformation, Tai'an has actively integrated into the environmental protection and high-quality development strategy of the Yellow River Basin. The city has optimized its industrial, energy, transportation, and agricultural structures, continuously reducing carbon dioxide emissions per unit of GDP. Two national-level groundwater pollution prevention pilot projects were implemented, yielding 45 outcomes, while five pollution reduction and carbon synergy innovation pilots were launched, injecting new momentum into green growth.

Additionally, Tai'an promotes public participation and shared benefits, embedding the concept that "lucid waters and lush mountains are invaluable assets" into public consciousness. Building a beautiful Tai'an has become a collective and voluntary action for all residents.