1990s are examples of the state’s power to mobilize society in pursuit of
environmental protection objectives. Planning for this campaign may have
been flawed and truncated, as indicated by the large number of monocultural
plantations and selection of tree species poorly adapted to diverse environ-
mental conditions. Nevertheless, the total amount of newly planted forests is
unheralded in human history, and makes China one of a small number of
countries that can play an important role in global carbon sequestration.
An experienced environmental agency official made these comments about
the role of government in biodiversity conservation:
‘There is a Chinese essence to the management. There is a bigger role for the
government. We want fast action, thus the government provides the movement, the
dynamism. NGOs have less influence. The government doesn’t let them do too
much, yet this is changing. If the government pays attention to an environmental
problem, then something gets done.’^2In Taiwan, decentralization processes also have weakened the state’s capacity,
and it can be argued that democratization (including the formation of a
resilient civil society, a diverse array of political parties, and a demanding
general public) has reduced the reach of the state still further. The state
continues to have strong motivations to promote biodiversity conservation, but
its mobilization capabilities are constrained by the rising power of the business
community. Also, state autonomy is challenged by local concerns such as
fostering economic growth and defending/attacking local administrations
through elections. Moreover, sluggish economic performance after the 2000
elections, the fear of the ‘hollowing-out effect’ in cross-strait economic
relations, and increasingly aggressive behavior by China in the debate over
unification of Taiwan into China all force the state to emphasize economic
development as the first national development priority.
Influence of Science on Policy
Natural scientists, especially in the biological sciences and ecology, have had
a greater influence on biodiversity conservation policy (both individually and
collectively) than is the case in most developed nations. Individual scientists
have provided the data needed to assess damage to species and habitats.
Leaders are likely to pay attention to the reports of scientists, especially those
presenting information about critical species and ecosystems. One social
scientist observed:
‘Scholars are important for the initiation of ideas. They have an impact on the
National People’s Congress. Also, they are important in international negotiations,
and in long-term planning. None of our national policies departs much from an
academic base. Moreover, they have had influence at early stages.’^3Conclusions 227