China has emerged as Asia’s wetland champion, securing fourth place worldwide in total wetland area, according to 2026 data from the National Forestry and Grassland Administration. 🌿 This milestone follows years of intensified conservation efforts, blending legal reforms and ecological restoration to protect these vital ecosystems.
Legal Frameworks & Green Gains
With updated laws in 21 provinces and a tiered management system, China now safeguards 82 internationally recognized wetlands and over 1,200 provincial sites. 🛡️ The country also boasts 22 ‘Wetland Cities’—more than any nation—and 903 national wetland parks, drawing 320 million annual visits. Best part? Nearly 90% are free to explore! 🎉
Restoration in Action
Over 3,800 projects have restored 1 million+ hectares of wetlands since 2020, focusing on mangrove recovery and invasive species control. 🦆🔧 These efforts not only boost biodiversity but also align with global climate goals, making China’s wetlands a blueprint for sustainable growth.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com






