The opening ceremony of China Guizhou Ecological Products (Technologies) Expo

Agreements for more than 30 ecology projects – concerning wind energy production, shale gas exploration and eco-tourism, with a total investment of 33.2 billion yuan ($5.4 billion) – were signed on Friday, when the China Guizhou Ecological Products (Technologies) Expo opened in the city of Guiyang, Guizhou province.

Thousands of environmentally friendly products are on display at the expo, with the main hall divided into four zones: Natural Ecosystems, Industrial Energy Efficiency, Sustainable Architecture and Cultural Ecology.

Over 260 exhibitors, including many top international organizations and multinational companies in the sector, are promoting environmental science as well as seeking networking and business opportunities.

"It is the responsibility of every nation to protect the environment", said Chen Min'er, the governor of Guizhou, in a statement. "China, one of the most important emerging economies in the world, needs to step up its fight against pollution and to offer more support to green industries."