Sanya has been working hard to promote green building construction, based on saving the earth, energy, resources, and the advocacy of a low-carbon lifestyle. 
 
Other cities and counties in Hainan, including Wanning, Baoting, Changjiang and Haikou have carried out specific regulations to promote the construction of green buildings as part of a major new sustainability scheme.
 
The standard will also be applied to affordable housing projects as well as to public construction projects, the official said.
 
Green building (also known as sustainable building) refers to construction that is environmentally responsible and resource-efficient throughout its life-cycle, through saving energy, water, and materials, and providing people with a healthy and efficient living space. In general, it has a harmonious connection with nature.
 
The provincial government aims to construct green buildings totaling 5.5 million square meters during the 2011-2015 period.