UNESCO has added two Chinese ecological sites to its World Network of Biosphere Reserves, recognizing their role in balancing biodiversity conservation with sustainable human development. The announcement came Saturday as part of a global list of 26 new reserves across 21 countries.
The newly designated areas – whose names remain undisclosed pending official confirmation – join China's existing 34 biosphere reserves under UNESCO's Man and the Biosphere Programme. These living laboratories test innovative approaches to environmental protection while supporting local communities' economic needs.
"This recognition underscores China's evolving approach to ecological civilization," said Dr. Li Wei, an environmental policy analyst at Beijing University. "By integrating traditional land-use practices with modern conservation science, these reserves could become blueprints for rural revitalization across Asia."
The designation comes as Chinese authorities intensify efforts to meet carbon neutrality targets, with forest coverage expanding by 7.2 million hectares since 2013. Business leaders note growing investment opportunities in eco-tourism and sustainable agriculture linked to protected areas.
For travelers, the new reserves promise unique opportunities to experience China's diverse ecosystems – from subtropical forests to alpine meadows – through carefully managed ecotourism programs. Researchers anticipate enhanced international collaboration on climate resilience studies through the UNESCO network.
