Comment on "Western program new engine for growth" (China Daily, Aug 20)

China should take this opportunity to promote a green policy in its western region and effectively avoid the mistakes it committed while developing its coastal region.

By "green" I mean an environmentally friendly energy and resource utilization program. A green infrastructure program is one that maximizes the use of existing facilities. For example, the government can build straddling bus systems and sky train networks on existing highways and roads, instead of digging up and/or occupying more land to build new railways and subways and causing more environmental damage.

Also, a green administrative system allows more grassroots participation, and a green taxation system promotes simple, fair and low tax for all.

ICwu, on China Daily website

Readers' comments are welcome. Please send your e-mail to opinion@chinadaily.com.cn or letters@chinadaily.com.cn or to the individual columnists. China Daily reserves the right to edit all letters. Thank you.