To make urban planning and construction more scientific and promote a low-carbon transformation of urban-rural development, China recently issued a special plan to strengthen its sci-tech innovation abilities for urban development.

　　Titled the Special Plan on Sci-Tech Innovation for Urbanization and Urban Development during the 14th Five-Year Plan Period, the document was formulated by the Ministry of Science and Technology and the Ministry of Housing and Urban-Rural Development. It is aimed at providing sci-tech support for the country to build livable, innovative, smart, green, people-centered and resilient cities.

　　By 2025, the sci-tech innovation system in the field of urbanization and urban development should be improved. Optimized technological solutions are expected to be provided for urbanization, and vigorously support the low-carbon and sustainable development of cities, according to the plan.

　　Specifically, the plan lists seven key tasks to strengthen research:

　　●Urban development trends and urban spatial layout;

　　●Urban renewal and life quality improvement technology;

　　●Core technology and equipment for smart construction, operation and maintenance;

　　●Green, healthy and resilient buildings and infrastructure;

　　●Low-carbon transition system for urban development;

　　●Protection of urban historical and cultural heritage;

　　●Integrated development of culture and tourism.

　　To realize the goals, the plan proposes a host of measures, including encouraging young scientists to do original and pioneering research on urban development.

　　It supports technological exchanges and cooperation between domestic and foreign research institutions, enterprises and industry organizations in the field of urban development.

　　What's more, multinational companies and foreign institutions are encouraged to set up relevant R&D institutions in China.