In 2022, a visitor hiking through the picturesque mountains of Beijing’s Mentougou District was captivated by the sight of rare blooming flowers. Drawn by their beauty, she took one home, unaware of the consequences that awaited her. The plant she removed was Clematis acerifolia, a native and endangered species found only in a narrow region of Beijing. Listed as a second-class, state-protected plant species, its removal from its natural rocky cliff habitat led to its death due to environmental sensitivity.
This incident is not isolated. In 2023, three individuals in southwest China’s Guizhou Province faced imprisonment and hefty fines for illegally extracting 2,500 kilograms of Cibotium barometz, commonly known as the woolly fern. Despite its status as a second-class, state-protected plant species, the woolly fern is often illicitly harvested for medicinal purposes.
These cases highlight China’s commitment to safeguarding its rich biodiversity through the enforcement of strict environmental laws. By holding individuals accountable for illegal activities that threaten endangered species, China aims to preserve its unique flora for future generations. The government’s actions serve as a reminder of the importance of respecting natural habitats and the legal protections in place to conserve them.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
