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Yangtze Fish Ban: Biodiversity Booms, Livelihoods Secured
10 Sep
Summary
- Aquatic biodiversity increased by 43 native species since the 10-year fishing ban.
- Finless porpoise population grew to 1,426 from a low of 1,012 in 2017.
- 231,000 former fishers received support, with most finding new employment.
Experts recently convened at a United Nations event to discuss China's successful 10-year fishing ban in the Yangtze River basin. This initiative has led to a notable increase in aquatic biodiversity, with 43 more native fish species recorded since the ban's inception in 2021. The population of the Yangtze finless porpoise has also seen substantial growth, rising from 1,012 in 2017 to 1,426.
Integral to the ban's success is the effective resettlement and livelihood support provided to former fishers. Over the past five years, 231,000 individuals were registered, and the majority have since secured employment or received pension benefits. This demonstrates that conservation restrictions are sustainable when communities' needs are met.
The ban has also revitalized the region's fishing culture by shifting its focus from production to heritage preservation, education, and cultural activities. Museums and exhibition venues now share the Yangtze's ecological stories, while traditional folk activities and market-oriented products boost the local economy and tourism.
International delegates, including those from Pakistan and the General Fisheries Commission for the Mediterranean, expressed admiration for China's approach. They highlighted the strong governance required for such a comprehensive conservation strategy, which includes enforcing bans, compensating fishers, combating illegal fishing, and ensuring ecological restoration.
