May 22 marks the International Day for Biological Diversity, a global reminder of the critical importance of preserving the planet’s rich tapestry of life. Biodiversity is the foundation upon which we can tackle pressing challenges such as climate change, health crises, food and water security, and sustainable livelihoods. It provides the blueprint for nature-based solutions and paves the way for a resilient and sustainable future.
China, renowned for its vast and diverse ecosystems, has placed biodiversity conservation at the forefront of its national agenda. The country’s commitment to achieving harmony between humans and nature is evident in its ambitious policies and significant strides toward green, eco-friendly, and sustainable development.
The resurgence of rare and endangered species across China is a testament to these efforts. According to the National Forestry and Grassland Administration (NFGA), the wild giant panda population has grown from approximately 1,100 in the 1980s to over 1,900 today. Similarly, the milu deer population has surged from a mere 77 in the 1980s to over 10,000 in 2022.
The Hainan gibbon, the world’s rarest primate, has seen a remarkable recovery. Once numbering less than ten in the 1980s, their population has increased to 37 individuals across six groups as of 2023, according to NFGA data. The crested ibis, originating from northwest China’s Shaanxi Province, has also rebounded impressively. From fewer than a dozen in the 1980s, the global population now exceeds 10,000, with over 9,000 residing in China.
Asian elephants have made a significant comeback as well. Their numbers have risen from approximately 180 in the 1980s to more than 300 in 2023, as reported by the Ministry of Ecology and Environment.
China’s domestic achievements are mirrored in its international commitments. In December 2022, the global community convened to adopt the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework, also known as The Biodiversity Plan. This landmark agreement sets ambitious goals and concrete measures to halt and reverse nature loss by 2050.
The urgency of these actions cannot be overstated. The United Nations reports that three-quarters of the Earth’s land-based environment and about 66 percent of the marine environment have been significantly altered by human activities. Alarmingly, one million animal and plant species are currently threatened with extinction.
This year’s theme for the International Day for Biological Diversity, “Be Part of the Plan,” is a rallying call to action. It invites governments, indigenous peoples, local communities, organizations, businesses, and individuals worldwide to contribute to the implementation of The Biodiversity Plan. As China demonstrates, concerted efforts can lead to tangible results in preserving our planet’s invaluable biodiversity.
By embracing sustainable practices and fostering global cooperation, we can ensure a healthier, more resilient world for generations to come. The time to act is now, and every contribution counts in the collective endeavor to protect the diversity of life on Earth.
Reference(s):
International Day for Biological Diversity: From China to the world
cgtn.com
