China has made significant strides in improving its marine environment, as outlined in a recent white paper issued by the State Council Information Office. The document, titled “Marine Eco-Environmental Protection in China”, highlights the nation’s efforts in strengthening land-sea coordination and enhancing river-sea connectivity.
According to the white paper, there has been a notable improvement in offshore water quality. In 2023, the proportion of sea areas with good to excellent water quality increased by 21.3 percentage points compared to 2012. This marks a substantial advancement in China’s commitment to preserving its vast marine ecosystems.
Further emphasizing its dedication, China has established 352 marine protected areas and designated 150,000 square kilometers of red lines across various ecosystems. These measures aim to safeguard critical marine habitats and promote biodiversity.
In addition, the country has undertaken 1,682 key tasks and construction projects focused on marine environmental protection. By the end of 2023, about half of these initiatives had been completed, showcasing China’s proactive approach to addressing environmental challenges.
This progress reflects China’s ongoing endeavor to balance economic development with ecological preservation. The enhanced marine environment not only benefits local communities but also contributes positively to global ecological health.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com