Professor YIN Haitao, Professor from Economics Department of Antai College of Economics and Management (ACEM) at Shanghai Jiao Tong University, recently shared his expert insights on CGTN's The Point regarding the intersection of climate change and China's massive Spring Fetival migration.
During the live interview, YIN provided a comprehensive analysis of how extreme weather events are affecting China's transportation infrastructure during the world's largest annual human migration. Drawing from his expertise in environmental economics, he emphasized the growing connection between climate change and travel disruptions.
"As an environmental economist, I observe that the increasing frequency of extreme weather events is directly linked to rising global greenhouse gas emissions," YIN explained. "What we're witnessing during this year's Spring Festival period could become more common in the future."
Professor YIN also highlighted the effective multi-stakeholder response to travel disruptions, noting how government agencies, emergency services, and local communities have collaborated to assist stranded travelers. This demonstrates China's adaptive capacity in managing large-scale logistics challenges under adverse conditions.
On the economic front, Professor YIN provided an optimistic assessment of consumption patterns during the festival period, despite broader economic headwinds. His analysis suggests that traditional gift-giving customs and pent-up demand for family reunions continue to drive robust consumer spending during the holiday season.
The CGTN appearance showcases ACEM's thought leadership in addressing complex socioeconomic challenges at the intersection of environmental sustainability, public policy, and economic development. Professor YIN's insights contribute to the broader academic discourse on climate adaptation strategies and their implications for China's transportation infrastructure planning.
Click here for the full interview: https://www.cgtn.com/tv/replay?id=BaIIHIA
About Prof. YIN Haitao
Professor YIN Haitao is currently serving as Vice Dean for International Outreach at the Department of Economics, Antai College of Economics and Management (ACEM), Shanghai Jiao Tong University, where he has been a full professor since 2017.
He earned his Ph.D. in Applied Economics and Managerial Science from The Wharton School, University of Pennsylvania, and holds multiple degrees from Peking University, including an M.A. in Public Administration and dual bachelor's degrees in Law and Economics.
Before joining ACEM in 2009, he was affiliated with the University of Michigan's Erb Institute for Global Sustainable Enterprise. His academic excellence has been recognized through numerous prestigious awards, including the National Natural Science Foundation for Excellent Youth Scholars in China (2013) and the Top Youth Talent Support Plan from the CPC Central Committee (2012). He serves as a reviewer for several leading journals in economics and environmental studies.
Professor YIN leads several research initiatives at ACEM focusing on environmental economics and sustainable development. His expertise continues to inform public understanding of how climate change affects China's economic and social systems.