Deqing County in China’s Zhejiang Province has secured global recognition for its sustainable agricultural practices, with its freshwater pearl mussel composite fishery system designated as a Globally Important Agricultural Heritage System (GIAHS) by the UN Food and Agriculture Organization. The announcement, made during a ceremony at FAO headquarters in Rome, highlights China’s leadership in preserving ecological farming traditions, now home to 25 such UNESCO-backed sites.
The Deqing system, developed over centuries, integrates pearl mussel cultivation with rice farming and aquaculture. This symbiotic approach minimizes waste, boosts biodiversity, and supports local livelihoods. It follows Huzhou’s 2017 GIAHS recognition for its mulberry-dyke and fish-pond model, reinforcing the region’s role in China’s agricultural innovation.
"This honor reflects our commitment to balancing economic growth with ecological stewardship," said Chen Wei, a Deqing aquaculture researcher. "These practices offer lessons for sustainable food systems worldwide."
As global demand for eco-friendly solutions grows, Deqing’s model provides insights for policymakers and investors exploring climate-resilient agriculture. The designation is expected to boost eco-tourism and cross-cultural exchanges in the region.
