China's Green Foundation Grows Stronger

On Saturday, China marked its fourth National Ecology Day in Inner Mongolia, showcasing substantial progress in ecological conservation and green development. A key highlight was the advancement of the Three-North Shelterbelt Forest Program, initiated in 1978. Since 2023, the government has invested 88.9 billion yuan (approximately $13.1 billion) in this program, completing over 5.33 million hectares of ecological restoration annually.

This extensive effort has enhanced China's northern ecological shield, with forest and grassland coverage reaching 40.76 percent in the program area. Additionally, 67.82 percent of treatable desertified land has been controlled, demonstrating a robust response to desertification.

Progress in China's national park system was also detailed, with the first five parks integrating over 120 protected areas. This initiative has strengthened protection for critical ecosystems and wildlife habitats, leading to notable population recoveries for flagship species. The Tibetan antelope population now exceeds 70,000, wild Siberian tigers have increased to 72, and wild leopards to 115.

Further advancements include the expansion of the critically endangered Hainan gibbon population to 44 individuals across seven groups. Inner Mongolia also reported significant strides in green energy, with new-energy capacity constituting 56 percent of its total power generation.

This celebratory event coincided with the official enforcement of China's Ecological and Environmental Code on Saturday. This comprehensive code, comprising 1,242 articles, aims to reinforce the legal framework for environmental protection, pollution control, and sustainable development, marking a significant step towards achieving harmony between humanity and nature.