My Country Strengthens Protection and Restoration of Wetlands on World Wetlands Day
February 2nd marked the 28th World Wetlands Day, with the theme of “Wetlands and Human Well-Being.” In light of this, the National Forestry and Grassland Administration has revealed that there will be continued efforts to comprehensively strengthen wetland protection and restoration in the country.
Wetlands are often referred to as the “kidneys of the earth” and “species gene banks,” providing essential ecological services such as protecting biodiversity, carbon sequestration, and climate change mitigation. In recent years, China has made significant strides in wetland protection, with over 2,200 wetland-type natural reserves established and a national wetland area of 56.35 million hectares. Additionally, 82 internationally important wetlands, 58 nationally important wetlands, 903 national wetland parks, and 13 international wetland cities have been designated.
Since the implementation of the Wetland Protection Law in June 2022, China has been focused on constructing a legal supervision system for wetland protection and improving supporting policies and systems. The country has issued 8 wetland protection and restoration policies, resulting in substantial progress, including the completion of provincial wetland protection regulations in eight provinces and the establishment of a wetland sensing system.
In an effort to fulfill its obligations under the Ramsar Convention, the International Mangrove Center has been established in Shenzhen. This marks another international forestry organization based in China and will serve as a platform for dialogue, exchanges, and cooperation on mangrove protection and restoration.
Moving forward, China aims to continue its efforts in wetland protection and restoration, promoting international cooperation and the rational utilization of wetland resources. This commitment reflects the country’s dedication to environmental conservation and sustainable development. (Rule of Law Daily)