China’s effort to safeguard biodiversity pays dividends
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Loading... - Louis Robert
- 24 May 2023
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Recent years have witnessed a notable increase in the population of numerous endangered species of plants and animals, thanks to China's dedicated endeavors to safeguard habitats and biodiversity. This commendable achievement was highlighted by the National Forestry and Grassland Administration on the 23rd International Day for Biological Diversity, celebrated annually on May 22. Emphasizing the theme of "From Agreement to Action: Build Back Biodiversity," the administration revealed that during the 14th Five-Year Plan period (2021-2025), over 300 rare and endangered species, including Siberian tigers and orchids, experienced a rise in their numbers.
The Siberian tiger's distribution area has expanded over the years from the Changbai Mountains to the Greater and Lesser Hinggan Mountains, boasting a wild population of approximately 60. Likewise, the crested ibis has extended its distribution area from three provinces to seven, harboring a wild population exceeding 7,000. Additionally, the Qiaojia pine trees, which numbered merely 34 in the 1990s, now thrive with a count surpassing 3,000.
China's commitment to the protection of these endangered species extends further with plans to establish an extensive network of national parks across the country, covering a vast expanse of more than 110 million hectares, equivalent to approximately 10.3 percent of the nation's land area. The objective is to safeguard 75 percent of national key terrestrial endangered wildlife species and 80 percent of national key terrestrial endangered plant species by 2025.
A successful illustration of habitat conservation can be found in Wuyishan National Park, situated in Fujian and Jiangxi provinces. Spanning an area of approximately 128,000 hectares and providing a habitat for over 10,000 species of flora and fauna, the park has achieved a harmonious coexistence between the local community and its diverse wildlife. Through allocating 10 percent of its area to eco-friendly industries, the park ensures that the remaining 90 percent is dedicated to biodiversity preservation.
This innovative approach has fostered the growth of green industries, such as tea production, tourism, and bamboo cultivation, resulting in both economic development and environmental conservation, as highlighted by the park's management bureau. Local residents have greatly benefited from this model, engaging in eco-friendly tourism and conservation work, while over 1,600 villagers have secured employment opportunities as hiking tour guides and park maintenance staff.
Furthermore, these conservation efforts have had a positive ripple effect on the surrounding communities. Zhan Jianying, a resident of Aotou village in the heart of the park, expressed gratitude, stating, "Without these pristine mountains and waters, we wouldn't be blessed with such exceptional tea. If we wish to continue reaping the benefits of these natural resources, it is imperative that we protect them."
