China has unveiled a comprehensive three-year action plan to restore aquatic ecosystems and safeguard freshwater resources, signaling a renewed push for ecological modernization. The initiative, jointly announced by the Ministry of Ecology and Environment and other government agencies, outlines ambitious targets to transform waterways into thriving ecological corridors by 2035.
A Three-Pillar Strategy for Water Revival
Liu Jing, deputy director of water ecology at the ministry, outlined three core objectives for the program:
Water Security: Ensuring stable replenishment sources and maintaining ecological water flow to prevent river depletion
Biodiversity Protection: Restoring native species populations and preserving critical buffer zones
Community Integration: Improving water quality while creating public-friendly waterfront spaces
From Pollution Control to Ecosystem Management
The plan emphasizes scientific pollution mitigation strategies and coordinated basin-wide management across 2025-2027. Authorities aim to establish an integrated monitoring system covering 83 key river basins, with particular focus on balancing industrial needs and ecological preservation.
By 2030, officials anticipate measurable improvements in water transparency, fish populations, and public access to rehabilitated waterfronts. The final 2035 targets envision achieving what Liu describes as 'harmonious coexistence between communities and waterways' through sustained ecological investment.
