As 2025 wraps up, China celebrates a landmark achievement in environmental protection: Over 800 million mu of wetlands have been preserved nationwide during the 14th Five-Year Plan period (2021-2025). The National Forestry and Grassland Administration revealed this week that more than 1,000 conservation projects and cutting-edge restoration efforts have revitalized 4.34 million mu (≈290,000 hectares) of these critical ecosystems – equivalent to 40 times the size of Manhattan! 🌍
Young eco-advocates are cheering the progress, with initiatives like urban wetland parks and AI-powered wildlife monitoring gaining traction. "This isn't just about pandas and cranes," says Shanghai-based environmentalist Li Wei, 28. "Healthy wetlands mean cleaner air, better flood control, and a fighting chance against climate change for our generation."
While the Five-Year Plan period concludes this month, officials confirm expanded protections for mangrove forests and migratory bird habitats will continue through 2030. Travelers can explore newly accessible wetland reserves in Jiangsu and Yunnan provinces – just don’t forget your binoculars! 🦩
