Visitors to Yundang Lake in Xiamen, a coastal city in east China’s Fujian Province, are greeted by vibrant greenery, pristine waters, and flocks of water birds. Once nicknamed the “city’s drawing room,” the lake has become a favored spot for locals to unwind and exercise.
However, this serene landscape was a far cry from the polluted “black water lake” that existed decades ago. “People used to hold their breath and hurry past the lake,” recalled 65-year-old retired teacher, Chen Yajin. The lake was notorious for its stench and filth, a consequence of unchecked urbanization and industrialization in the early 1980s.
In 1984, recognizing the urgent need for action, the city government initiated an environmental campaign to rehabilitate Yundang Lake. Efforts included removing accumulated sludge, reinforcing the lake’s shores, relocating heavily polluting factories, and constructing sewage treatment facilities. These measures significantly curbed pollution levels.
To further restore the lake’s ecology, pipelines were installed to enhance water exchange between the lake and the nearby sea. The dredged mud was repurposed to create a small island within the lake, fostering a new habitat for water birds.
To date, Xiamen authorities have launched five ecological restoration campaigns targeting Yundang Lake. “Today, we can observe over 80 species of water birds in the area,” said Chen. With six parks now surrounding the lake, it has transformed into a “recreational center” for residents, symbolizing the city’s commitment to environmental sustainability.
The remarkable turnaround of Yundang Lake serves as a testament to the positive impact of concerted environmental efforts. It highlights the potential for urban centers to balance development with ecological preservation, offering a blueprint for other cities seeking sustainable growth.
Reference(s):
China's coastal city witnesses ecological restoration progress
cgtn.com
