Understanding Shanxi's Coal Dependency and Transition

Xiaojun Wang shares his personal story of growing up in Shanxi, China, a region heavily dependent on coal mining. He discusses the environmental and personal impacts of coal mining, including the loss of his cousin. Wang highlights the cultural heritage of Shanxi and the need for a transition to renewable energy. He calls for support from Beijing and other provinces to help Shanxi move away from coal dependency and towards a sustainable future.

What is the significance of tomb-sweeping day in the narrator's hometown?

• A day to celebrate new births

• A day to clean tombs and seek blessings from ancestors

• A day to plant trees

• A day to celebrate the harvest

What career did the narrator's grandfather expect them to pursue?

• Soldier

• Journalist

• Coal miner

• Teacher

What was the peak number of coal mines in Shanxi during the mid-1990s?

• 5,000

• 11,000

• 20,000

• 15,000

What is the 'sibling mechanism' in China?

• A family support system

• A renewable energy initiative

• A centralized coordination for coal distribution

• A cultural exchange program

What global event in 2021 highlighted the need for a coal phasedown?

• The G20 Summit

• The Kyoto Protocol

• The Paris Agreement

• COP26 in Glasgow

What percentage of buildings older than 1,000 years are located in Shanxi?

• 75%

• 80%

• 60%

• 50%

What is considered the real treasure of Shanxi according to the narrator?

• Agricultural land

• Modern infrastructure

• Ancient tombs and buildings

• Coal reserves

What is the narrator's vision for Shanxi's future?

• Development of new coal technologies

• Continued coal mining

• A transition to renewable energy and cultural revival

• Expansion of coal exports

What does the narrator believe is necessary for Shanxi to transition away from coal?

• Investment in new coal technologies

• Increased coal production

• Policy coordination and support from other provinces

• Isolation from other provinces

What does the narrator hope for their sister's new grandson?

• A clean, safe, and healthy future

• A future in coal mining

• A career in politics

• A life in a different province