Hangzhou, the picturesque capital of east China's Zhejiang Province, will make history this September as the first Asian city to host UNESCO's World Congress of Biosphere Reserves. The 5th edition of this decennial global gathering – running from September 22 to 25 – is expected to draw 4,000 delegates from over 150 countries and regions to discuss sustainable development strategies.
Chinese Academy of Sciences Vice President He Hongping announced at a Tuesday press conference that the event represents a milestone in global environmental cooperation. "This congress will showcase China's achievements in balancing ecological protection with economic growth," He stated, highlighting the country's 34 UNESCO-recognized biosphere reserves.
The congress comes as Asian nations increasingly lead in developing green technologies and climate resilience models. Business analysts note the event could spur new cross-border partnerships in eco-tourism and clean energy sectors, particularly in the Yangtze River Delta region where Hangzhou serves as an innovation hub.
For travelers and environmental enthusiasts, the congress coincides with Hangzhou's iconic West Lake autumn scenery, offering delegates first-hand experience of China's harmonious urban-nature integration – a model expected to feature prominently in discussions.
