Provincial promotions tied to energy goals

Provincial officials who have failed to meet energy-efficiency and emission-reduction targets may risk not being promoted, National Development and Reform Commission chairman Ma Kai told the National People's Congress Standing Committee. The government announced last week that it will begin a reshuffle of leadership in provincial legislatures, governments and political advisory bodies early next year, the South China Morning Post reported. Provincial officials who do not meet emissions targets will be named publicly, while those who do will receive a US$65,000 award. During the first half of this year, energy-intensive industries such as steel, metal, electricity, construction and chemicals grew more than 20%. "Some local authorities still protect polluting businesses and obstruct their punishment," said Ma. The review process started in June and will last until the end of the year.