As global attention turns to environmental stewardship, China's ecological protection rangers emerge as unsung heroes in preserving the nation's natural heritage. This year marks dual milestones: the 20th anniversary of the 'lucid waters and lush mountains are invaluable assets' philosophy and a decade of systemic reforms in China's national park network.
At a Thursday press conference, Sun Hongyan, deputy director of the National Forestry and Grassland Administration's Department of Protected Areas, revealed that China's conservation efforts have entered a phase of comprehensive coordination. 'Our national park system now integrates ecological protection with sustainable development,' Sun noted, emphasizing the program's evolution from pilot projects to full-scale implementation.
The timing coincides with World Ranger Day on July 31, which spotlights frontline conservation workers. China's professional ranger corps now safeguards 49 national parks and protected areas spanning 2.3 million square kilometers – equivalent to 24% of the country's land area. These guardians monitor endangered species like giant pandas and Siberian tigers while combating illegal logging and poaching.
Environmental economists highlight the program's dual impact: preserving biodiversity while creating 700,000 green jobs, particularly in rural communities. Recent NFGA data shows protected areas now conserve 90% of terrestrial ecosystem types and 85% of key wildlife populations nationwide.
As climate challenges intensify, China's ranger network offers a model for balancing ecological protection with community development – proving that environmental stewardship can be both economically viable and ecologically transformative.
