China has maintained its wetland area above 800 million mu (approximately 53.3 million hectares) during the 14th Five-Year Plan period (2021-2025), according to data released by the National Forestry and Grassland Administration. Over 1,000 wetland protection projects were implemented nationwide, with 4.34 million mu of wetlands scientifically restored, reinforcing the country's commitment to ecological preservation amid rapid urbanization.
The efforts align with broader climate resilience and biodiversity goals, particularly in critical zones like the Yangtze River Delta and Pearl River Delta. Wetlands now cover 4.6% of the Chinese mainland's territory, providing habitats for 2,420 plant species and 260 endangered animal species. Authorities emphasize that these ecosystems play a vital role in carbon sequestration and flood mitigation, supporting sustainable development targets ahead of the 2025 UN Biodiversity Conference.
