Ecological cities demand sophisticated transport networks and public transportation is being developed as a priority in the new district, he said.

"In ecologically successful cities, public transportation takes up as much as 60 percent of the total transportation volume," said the mayor.

As well as the on-land network plans for an underground system are underway.

The government said it is exploring opportunities to cooperate with foreign companies and institutions on the treatment of garbage and sewage.

The government is building an underground system to transport water, electricity, gas, sewage and communication facilities.

The authority hopes this method will be more convenient and will avoid ruining the sea view.

"An ecological city can never be self-claimed. It has to be that people who come and live here heartily feel that it is good for life," said Wang.

Cui Qing, head of Potou district, where Haidong will be located, said: "Our administration is devoted to building a solid foundation. When there is good infrastructure and great environment, high-quality businesses will naturally arrive."

The new district has welcomed businesses in e-commerce, electronic appliances, IT, creativity, modern services, tourism and emerging industries such as marine biomedicine and new materials.

"We also welcome a packaged industry cluster. For example, if a large company, like an automaker, wants to make a major investment, the government can map out a certain area for the company, and the company can have its own blueprint," said Cui.

"Our bottom line is that the businesses are all environmentally friendly," she said.