Words do little to convey the kind of destruction unfettered growth has caused in China. Stories of environmental degradation and displacement are common but fail to show the true, human impact of China’s rise.
Contrastingly, spectacular examples of China’s positive ambition are everywhere; in the mushrooming modern mega-cities as well as events such as the annual Harbin Ice and Snow Sculpture Festival; a whimsical Disney-like world made entirely of ice, snow and millions upon millions of Christmas lights. A tourist trap perhaps, but also a testament to the innovative and hopeful spirit of the country.
The following photo essays provide insights into the strange world of China’s yin and yang.
- Lu Guang’s stunning, award-winning photography examines the effects of pollution in China on humans as well as landscapes.
- Muge Huang Rong’s touchingly old-fashioned photographs illustrate the impact of displacement in the Three Gorges area.
- Boston Globe’s Alan Taylor has put together a collection of images from the spectacular Harbin Ice and Snow Sculpture Festival.