Pudong is pioneering a ratio scheme to accelerate construction development and improve the business environment.

Shanghai has scarce natural resources, and rapid urbanization is increasingly consuming its land, water and green space. Now Pudong, an engine driving the city’s development, has figured out a solution.

The Pudong government has introduced a ratio system, setting land use quotas and releasing coupons to build resettlement housing.

Also, it has made a sensible balance on use of forests, waterways and green lands by digging new rivers and planting more trees after they are occupied to make room for major construction projects.

Previously, it was not easy for developers to get those “ratio coupons.” They were required to make plans by themselves, such as the area of land to be used, and go to authorities for approval. It was time-consuming, and sometimes their plans were rejected.

Today it’s completely a different story. Authorities go to developers to learn about their needs and make plans as a whole, said Fang Xi, deputy director of the Pudong Development and Reform Commission.