Zhejiang province was ranked first in China for its rural living environment in a report that was recently published.

Conducted by a third-party organization that was commissioned by the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, the report was based on research done through field trips, questionnaires and household surveys. Researchers had also traveled to rural regions across the country to evaluate garbage and waste water treatment practices, sanitation facilities and other environmental aspects.

This year marks the final year for the implementation of the nation's three-year action plan regarding the improvement of rural living environments.

Zhejiang, which has been developing its countryside areas for 17 years, has made remarkable progress in this respect. Presently, almost every countryside in the province is equipped with a public toilet, and treats garbage and waste water in an effective manner.

Local authorities said they will improve the public facilities management system in rural areas, encourage private enterprises to participate in collecting, transporting and treating garbage, and promote household waste classification.