Published

2 years ago

December 23, 2023

Alice Rush

Introduction Sustainable Agriculture in China

Sustainable agriculture is becoming increasingly crucial in addressing the environmental, social, and economic challenges faced by the world today.

In China, a country with a rich agricultural heritage and a significant population, the promotion of sustainable agricultural practices has taken center stage. China recognizes the need to balance agricultural productivity with environmental stewardship, ensuring a greener and more sustainable future for generations to come.

This article explores the initiatives, strategies, and advancements that China has undertaken to foster sustainable agriculture and address pressing issues such as land degradation, water scarcity, and food security.

Fact and data Sustainable Agriculture in China

Here are some factual points related to sustainable agriculture in China up to that date:

Greening of the Grain Belt: China has been implementing the “Grain for Green” program since 1999, which aims to convert marginal farmland into forest or grassland to reduce soil erosion and improve ecological conditions. By 2020, the program had reportedly converted around 5.21 million hectares of cropland into forests or grasslands.

Precision agriculture adoption: Precision farming technologies have gained momentum in China. According to a report by the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs in 2019, precision agriculture covered around 31 million hectares of farmland in China, with a focus on improving efficiency, reducing resource waste, and optimizing production.

Organic farming growth: China has been experiencing growth in organic farming. As of 2019, China had the third-largest organic farming area globally, covering around 3.1 million hectares. The country has implemented certification programs and provided financial support to promote organic farming practices.

Water management efforts: China faces water scarcity challenges, and sustainable water management in agriculture has been a priority. The Chinese government has invested in various irrigation infrastructure projects, including the construction of water-saving irrigation systems like drip irrigation and micro-irrigation. These efforts aim to improve water-use efficiency and reduce water pollution from agricultural activities.

Sustainable livestock initiatives: China has been taking steps to address the environmental impact of livestock production. The government has implemented regulations to control water and air pollution from animal husbandry operations. Efforts have also been made to promote improved animal welfare practices and encourage the adoption of more sustainable feed and manure management techniques.

Conservation Agriculture and Precision Farming:

China has made notable progress in implementing conservation agriculture practices that focus on reducing soil erosion, improving soil health, and conserving water resources. Conservation tillage techniques, such as no-till farming and crop rotation, are increasingly adopted to minimize soil disturbance and maintain soil organic matter.

Furthermore, precision farming technologies, including satellite imagery, drones, and sensor-based systems, are being utilized to optimize the use of resources, monitor crop health, and increase agricultural efficiency. These approaches help minimize chemical inputs, improve productivity, and reduce the environmental footprint of farming.

Agroecology and Organic Farming:

The promotion of agroecology and organic farming practices has gained significant attention in China. Agroecology emphasizes the integration of ecological principles into agricultural systems, promoting biodiversity, natural pest control, and soil fertility. China has been actively supporting the conversion of conventional farms to organic production through subsidies, technical support, and certification programs. The adoption of organic farming methods not only reduces chemical pesticide and fertilizer use but also safeguards ecosystem services, protects human health, and provides consumers with access to healthier food options.

Water Management and Irrigation:

Water scarcity is a critical issue in many parts of China, necessitating innovative water management strategies in agriculture. The government has implemented measures to enhance water-use efficiency, such as the promotion of drip irrigation, micro-irrigation, and rainwater harvesting techniques. These methods help conserve water resources, reduce water pollution from excessive fertilizer runoff, and improve crop yield and quality. China has also invested in the development of smart irrigation systems that use real-time data and sensors to precisely regulate irrigation schedules, reducing waste and optimizing water usage.

Sustainable Livestock Production:

China’s growing demand for meat and animal products has put pressure on its livestock industry, leading to concerns about environmental degradation and public health. To address these issues, China has been actively promoting sustainable livestock production practices. Measures such as improving feed efficiency, promoting pasture-based systems, and implementing waste management technologies help reduce greenhouse gas emissions, mitigate water pollution, and enhance animal welfare. Encouraging the use of alternative protein sources, such as plant-based proteins and cultured meat, is also gaining momentum to reduce the environmental impact associated with traditional livestock farming.

Technology and Innovation:

China recognizes the role of technology and innovation in driving sustainable agriculture. The country has been investing heavily in research and development, focusing on areas such as biotechnology, genetic engineering, and digital agriculture. These advancements aim to enhance crop resilience, develop disease-resistant varieties, and improve resource-use efficiency. Additionally, blockchain technology is being explored to ensure transparency and traceability in the food supply chain, fostering consumer trust and promoting sustainable farming practices.

Conclusion Sustainable Agriculture in China

China’s commitment to sustainable agriculture reflects its recognition of the need to balance food production with environmental protection.

Through initiatives such as conservation agriculture, agroecology, efficient water management, sustainable livestock production, and technological innovation, China is paving the way for a greener and more resilient agricultural sector.

By adopting these practices, China not only addresses pressing environmental challenges but also safeguards food security, enhances rural livelihoods, and sets an example for other nations.

https://www.exaputra.com/2023/05/sustainable-agriculture-in-china.html

Related Topics:China greener future sustainable agriculture

Up Next

LCS-Life Cycle Assessment of Sustainable Bioenergy Systems

Don't Miss

Green Jobs in the Sustainable Energy Sector: for a Greener Future

Alice Rush

Renewable Energy

Has the Fever Broken?

Published

2 days ago

November 15, 2025

Alice Rush

Many Americans are starting to feel like the lady whose observations we see at left.

Exactly how this moves forward from here is anyone’s guess. Maybe the Democrats gain a huge majority in Congress in 2026 and then impeach and convict Trump–perhaps joined by lots of Republicans.

There are plenty of different scenarios.

Has the Fever Broken?

Renewable Energy

Trump and Climate Change

Published

2 days ago

November 15, 2025

Alice Rush

As shown in this short video, Donald Trump says that climate change is the biggest con job ever perpetrated on Earth.

We are to believe that Trump a) understands the subject better than the thousands of our planet’s top scientists, located in countries all around the globe, and b) he’s telling the truth, where they have somehow gotten together and conspired to lie.

That’s quite a stretch.

Trump and Climate Change

Renewable Energy

Can You Stack VEU with Solar or Other Incentives? – Find Out

Published

3 days ago

November 14, 2025

Alice Rush

Renting in Victoria often comes with its share of compromises, especially when it comes to heating and cooling.

In Victoria, most households face high bills and reduced comfort because their old gas heaters kick in during winter or inefficient split-system air conditioners struggle to keep homes cool throughout summer.

Fortunately, there’s a golden opportunity many residents don’t know about: the Victorian Energy Upgrades (VEU) Program. This government-backed initiative offers meaningful rebates and discounts for efficient heating and cooling and other home upgrades.

But the question is: Do rental properties qualify for the VEU rebates?

The answer is yes, but there are a few important things tenants need to know.

Therefore, in this article, we’ll guide you through how tenants in VIC can benefit from VEU air con Upgrade, how the landlord consent process works, and share some real-world examples that you can follow to get started.

So, let’s begin!

In this blog post:

Understanding VEU Air Con Rebates: Can Renters Benefit?

As mentioned earlier, the Victorian government has introduced the Victorian Energy Upgrades (VEU) program to help
households and businesses reduce energy costs and lower greenhouse gas emissions.

Under this scheme, accredited providers offer rebates or discounts on the installation of energy-efficient products,
including reverse-cycle
air conditioners that replace older, inefficient systems in your home.

How Does the VEU Rebate Program Work?

The government issues “VEU certificates” for each upgrade, which energy companies then buy to meet their
emissions-reduction targets. This trading system allows households to receive up-front discounts.

Significantly, tenants can also benefit from the rebate if they have their landlord’s approval for installing air conditioners.

In rental homes, this upgrade not only improves comfort and reduces electricity bills but also helps landlords meet
Victoria’s minimum energy-efficiency
standards for rental properties.

Eager to know more?

Here is how renters can benefit through VEU air con Upgrades:

Lower energy bills

Upgrading to a high-efficiency reverse-cycle air conditioner under the VEU scheme can significantly reduce your
heating and cooling costs.

For example, recent data represents estimated savings of $120 to $1,100 per year, depending
on the size or type
of
upgrade.

Switching to efficient heating
and cooling systems helps reduce ongoing operational costs.
In your home, better temperature control means you’re less reliant on inefficient systems, like gas-burning
heaters or fans.

Improved comfort and living conditions

In a rental property, installing a modern, energy-efficient cooling system means better indoor comfort.
This VEU air con upgrade can be especially relevant in rentals where older systems may struggle or be
inefficient.

Eligibility and access permission as a tenant

Tenants can access upgrades under the VEU program, though you’ll need to coordinate with the landowner.
The best part is that there are no income thresholds to meet. The program is broadly available to Victorian
households and rental properties.
The discount is applied via an accredited provider, so the cost to the tenant (or the landlord/tenant jointly)
is reduced upfront.

Air Con Upgrade adds value to the rental property

Even though this VEU rebate directly benefits the property owner or landlord in terms of value appeal, tenants
also benefit by renting a property with better systems that likely have fewer repairs or maintenance issues.
Upgrades reduce maintenance
tasks for tenants, as older systems are more likely to break, causing discomfort or disputes over
repairs.

Do Tenants Really Need Landlord Consent? | The Approval Process Explained!

If you are living in a rental property in VIC and thinking about upgrading your air conditioning system through the
VEU program, you might be wondering — do I need my landlord’s approval before installing the new unit?

Well, since you don’t own the property you’re renting, one of the first steps as a tenant is to talk with your
landlord and seek permission.

It’s important to check in with your landlord before making any upgrades or installations. It helps avoid common mistakes
that disqualify you from a rebate, ensures compliance with your lease, and keeps everything running
smoothly.

Here’s how the landlord approval process usually works and what you should do to get landlord approval
fast:

Initiate the conversation

As a tenant, you can raise the possibility: “Would you be willing to upgrade the heating/cooling system under the
VEU
rebate scheme?” You can emphasis the long-term benefits to the landowner, such as lower bills, greater comfort,
and
improved property value.

Check eligibility together: here’s what to check!

Confirm the property has existed for more than 2 years.
Verify whether the existing system is eligible for replacement, e.g. an old gas heater or a low-efficiency
AC
unit.
Not all the brands
and
models are eligible, so check the public
registry to find a suitable one.
Make sure the upgrade has not been claimed for that property before. The program won’t allow duplicate
claims.
Select a VEU-approved product and an accredited installer, such as Cyanergy.

The landlord gives consent

Your landlord or rental provider must agree to the upgrade. Many installers note that rental properties can
access
the scheme only when the owner provides landlord approval.

Transparent discussion on cost & contract

Before installing a system, a contract with the installer will outline the rebate and installation details,
including
who pays upfront.

It’s wise for both the landlord and tenant to review it.

Installation & rebate claim

The installer handles the application under the VEU scheme, ensuring that the discount/rebate is applied. The
landlord will likely be the applicant (since they’re the property owner), but tenants can initiate or support
the
application.

Post-installation: Allocation of benefits

After installation, the improved system delivers reduced energy use. The agreement between landlord and tenant
should
clarify how those savings are handled.

Pro Tips Every Tenant Should Know During the Rental Process

To get the most out of this opportunity, here are some best practices especially tailored for tenants:

Get everything in writing, keep records, and retain a copy of the document for both the landlord and you.
Request an estimate that clearly outlines the rebate process or discount amount, allowing you to see the actual cost.
Ask the installer to clarify the warranty, ongoing maintenance, and any other relevant details.
Ensure the landlord agrees to your shared arrangement, including the cost, benefits, and timeframe, before committing to it.

How are Costs and Incentives Shared?

One of the main questions is: when a tenant benefits, who pays for what? And how incentives are distributed?

Well, under the VEU scheme, here’s how it typically works:

Incentives offered

According to the Victorian government’s heating and cooling factsheet, installing an efficient reverse-cycle air conditioner can result in significant savings. For example:
- Up to about $840 when replacing a hard-wired electric resistance room heater ranging from 3 kW-9 kW in a non-ducted setting.
- Up to $2,520 for replacing a ducted gas heater and installing 4 split systems (1×8 kW + 3×3 kW).
The program also notes that for rental properties, benefits apply: the regulatory impact assessment states:
“The VEU program is available to renters. The program encourages collaboration between rental providers and tenants to work together on upgrades.”

So, who bears the cost?

When discussing cost-sharing for installing an air conditioning system in a rental property, the tenant may offer to contribute by paying higher rent, extending the lease term, or sharing the energy savings.

This helps both the landlord and tenants to secure the upgrade quickly.

However, in most cases, the landlord pays the bulk of the cost or arranges for the installer to claim the rebate or discount, reducing the upfront cost.

Then, the installer essentially offsets your rebate via VEECs (Victorian Energy Efficiency Certificates) and passes the benefit on to the customer.

The rebate is usually applied up front, reducing the installation cost, and the amount depends on the type of system you remove and the system you install.

Sharing Benefits Between Landlord and Tenants: A Collaborative Approach

Upgrading the air conditioner or installing a new unit under the VEU rebate program can benefit both tenants and
landlords. While tenants benefit from lower power bills and greater comfort, landlords benefit from improved
property value.

Let’s picture this:

Example Scenario

The tenant initiates the upgrade, and the landlord agrees. The installer’s quote shows the system costs $4,000, with
a $2,500 rebate, so the net cost payable is $1,500.

The tenant might offer to sign a 2-3-year lease extension, providing the landlord with stability in return for a
share of the savings, such as lower power bills or a slight rent increase.
Landlord receives a modern upgrade, a better energy rating, and reduced risk.
Tenants enjoy comfort and lower bills, all while living in a rental.

However, even with a rebate, the property owner must meet the minimum customer contribution.

For instance, for a non-ducted reverse-cycle air conditioner under 10 kW, the minimum cost is $200 for a multi–split
system and $1,000 for a ducted system.

So, remember! While rebates are generous, they don’t always cover everything.

Ready to Upgrade Your Rental Home’s Efficiency? Cyanergy Make it Easy!

Whether it’s Victoria or NSW, more efficient rentals mean happier tenants and lower running costs. It’s a win-win for both. Don’t wait to make your property more efficient and affordable to run.

Let Cyanergy handle everything from rebates to installation so you can enjoy peace of mind and lasting value.

Start your upgrade journey today with us!