The third Eco-Forum Global Annual Conference commenced on Friday in the capital of Guizhou Province. The annual gathering of officials and experts from across the globe is intended to provide a platform for discussing and developing strategies to combat climate change and promote ecologically friendly practices.

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The theme for the 2015 Eco-Forum Global Annual Conference, which is being attended by up to 1,000 officials and experts, is "Embracing a new era of eco-civilization: New agenda, new normal, new action," according to China Daily.

Several events have been scheduled to mark the ongoing three-day conference. Among other things, officials have revealed that a 'time capsule' would be created containing the dreams of up to 100 people concerning the environment, Global Times reported. Also, an agreement would be signed between the local forestry department and international partners to create a bamboo plantation in Chishui, Guizhou Province.

An official from the Office of the Central Leading Group on Financial and Economic Affairs in China, Yin Yanlin, noted that for many years the country has been developing at the expense of the environment. He explained that it is necessary to create a system for monitoring and punishing offenders, according to China.cn.org. "We should establish an institutional system to prevent pollution from the source, ensure stringent supervision and enforce severe punishment for violations," he said.

At the ongoing conference, representatives of major multinational firms in the country -including Total, Coca-Cola and Veolia - have expressed their commitment to work with the government to combat environmental pollution and build a 'green' economy. During about 32 seminars, participants in the events are expected to discuss several key issues including the global energy market, the United Nations climate negotiations and the development of a 'green' economy.

In his speech, the former Irish Prime Minister Bertie Ahem explained that China's stand and plans regarding key issues like the environment can be very influential. "As the most populated country in the world, it is crucial and important that China is a leader in nurturing the environment and protecting it for future generations," he said.

Tags2015 Eco-Forum Global Annual Conference, China Environmental Protection