The total output of China's energy saving and environmental protection industries is targeted to hit 4.5 trillion yuan ($708 billion) by 2015, according to a government statement.

The sector's output is expected to grow 15 percent year-on-year through the incubation of a batch of environmental friendly conglomerates with international competitive strengths.

The country has the potential to save 400 million tons of standard coal equivalent by 2015, which could drive investment of more than 1 trillion yuan.

Investment in infrastructures for sewage and garbage treatment, as well as desulphurization and denitration, could exceed 800 billion yuan by 2015. The output of environmental services could surpass 500 billion yuan during the same period.

lanlan@chinadaily.com.cn