When combined, 环境 (huánjìng) means “surroundings” or “environment.” 保护 (bǎohù) is a strong, common word for “to protect.” Together, 环境保护 (huánjìng bǎohù) literally translates to “environment-protection.”
Historically, Chinese philosophy, particularly Daoism, emphasized the concept of 天人合一 (tiān rén hé yī), or “harmony between humanity and nature.” This traditional value suggests living in balance with the natural world rather than seeking to dominate it. However, decades of rapid industrialization post-1980s created severe environmental challenges, such as air and water pollution. In response, “环境保护” has transformed from a philosophical ideal into an urgent, top-down national priority. Compared to Western “environmentalism,” which often has strong grassroots and activist origins focused on conservation and individual rights, China's “环境保护” is largely framed as a pragmatic, state-led imperative. The goals are often tied to national stability, public health, economic transition, and resource security. It's less about a counter-cultural movement and more about a centrally planned effort to build what leaders call an “ecological civilization” (生态文明, shēngtài wénmíng). The focus is on a collective, national effort to solve concrete problems.
“环境保护” is a formal term used in specific, often serious, contexts.
In casual conversation, the shorter, more versatile word 环保 (huánbǎo) is much more common. For example, you would say “this bag is eco-friendly” (这个袋子很环保) not “this bag is very environmental protection.”