Officials should be judged mainly by how well they cope with the rapid depletion of resources and a deteriorating environment caused by speedy economic growth, the program says, according to Xinhua news agency.

"Government at all levels should carry out the sustainable development strategy conscientiously," the program says.

"Over time, government officials should be evaluated chiefly by their performance in implementing sustainable development," it said.

Challenges listed by the action program include serious waste in the exploitation of natural resources and a low share of clean energy in the country's total energy consumption, it said.

China should move "from the old mode of economic growth characterized by high consumption of resources, high pollution and low efficiency, to a new, sustainable pattern of low consumption, low pollution and high efficiency".

Apart from increasing the accountability of officials, the program also calls for an investment regime that favors spending on sustainable development, Xinhua said.

It also advises the use of science and technology and the strengthening of international cooperation to promote environmentally friendly development.

TERRA.WIRE