A number of migratory bird species have been spotted in the national natural reserve on the west side of Dongting Lake in Hanshou county, Hunan province. Photo Credit: Zhou Guohua/For chinadaily.com.cn
Environment ChinaA Milestone to Protect and Recover These Lakes and Rivers
A new action plan in line with the larger “Beautiful China” vision will ensure further protection of rivers and lakes nationwide.
“A beautiful river or lake is one where the ecological flow is maintained […]. Moreover, pollutant emissions within the watershed are well-managed, and the water quality has fundamentally improved or maintained excellent levels. And the public’s need for scenic views and recreational activities by the water is met,” says Liu Jing, deputy director of the ministry’s department of water ecology and environment.
The latest action plan aims to improve water ecology and recreational spaces while reducing pollution and environmental degradation. It is expected to conserve aquatic life, enhance habitat restoration, strengthen flood control, and enhance water monitoring capabilities and systems. The plan relies on older initiatives that have already drastically improved rivers and lakes across China. Notably, nationwide water quality exceeded 90 per cent for the first time in 2024, thanks to prior successful action plans. Under the scheme, significant progress is expected by 2030, while “full completion” is set for 2035.
