In the past few decades, China's cities have played a remarkable role in driving the country's economic transformation. With an estimated increase of 350 million urban residents over the next 20 years, the time is ripe to look forward, to examine how cities can contribute to resolving China's key development challenges.

Among them, conserving energy, reducing carbon emissions, and managing rapid urbanization have become increasingly urgent. Worldwide, cities account for an estimated 70 percent of global energy-related greenhouse gas emissions, and China's cities are no exception. The Chinese government is seeking to reduce carbon emissions per unit of GDP by 17 percent, a target set for the first time in its 12th Five Year Plan (2011-15).

The good news is that if China's cities embark on a low-carbon growth path, they can help the country reach its emissions target while improving the quality of life for its citizens. By providing better public services to relieve problems such as air pollution and traffic congestion, cities can become more livable, efficient, competitive, and ultimately sustainable.