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"They are still learning to keep the environment. Any social change will just take a long time," he says.

Thanks to his professional experience, Galyen is often invited to address conferences in China and abroad.

Galyen, who also interacts with Chinese government officials at different levels, says he gets the impression all local governments want a cleaner environment and sustainable development.

Galyen received the title of "National Distinguished Expert" under the 1000 Talent Plan, a Chinese government-initiated global-talent program, and was invited to meet Premier Li Keqiang in Beijing last year.

He says Li's speech emphasized China's determination to enhance its environment.

"It's good to hear the leadership ... give a speech about what the plan is," Galyen says.

"The primary reason for me to come to China was, I thought - and I still believe - I can make a difference in our ecology by making great battery systems here."

He works on improving storable-energy devices that reduce energy waste and pollution.

A fan of natural scenery and culture, Galyen, who has lived in different cities in his home country and has worked for large and small US corporations, says his earlier visits to China opened up his world.

"When I go out of Ningde, I try to take the time to see Chinese culture," he says.

He still vividly recalls his visit to the ethnically Tibetan regions in Qinghai province and how he enjoyed the local circle dancing.

"The people have a strong sense of their beliefs and traditions. They carry them down through action," he says.

"It's impressive for me to witness that firsthand."

Contact the writer at liuxiangrui@chinadaily.com.cn