Hidden high on the Qinghai-Xizang Plateau at an average elevation of 4,100 meters, Jianzuo Village is quietly revolutionizing sustainable living. Nestled near the headwaters of the Lancang River, this remote community is the first in the region to embrace a zero-waste lifestyle.
Concerned about the fragile environment of their homeland, the residents of Jianzuo Village have abandoned plastic products and disposable items. By eliminating the use of plastics, they aim to protect the pristine water and soil that are vital not only to their community but also to the vast ecosystems downstream.
“We realized that every piece of plastic discarded here could eventually harm the rivers and the biodiversity they support,” said a village elder. “By returning to traditional practices and using sustainable materials, we are preserving our environment for future generations.”
The village’s efforts are part of a broader movement in the Sanjiangyuan area, known as Asia’s “water tower” for being the source of the Yangtze, Yellow, and Lancang rivers. This region is rich in biodiversity but also exceptionally delicate. Local communities, scientists, and NGOs are collaborating to protect wildlife and promote environmental conservation.
Jianzuo Village’s zero-waste initiative serves as an inspiring example for other communities on the plateau and beyond. Their commitment demonstrates how collective action at the grassroots level can have a significant impact on environmental protection.
As more travelers and global citizens learn about Jianzuo Village, it highlights the importance of sustainable practices in preserving some of the world’s most critical natural resources.
Reference(s):
Life in Sanjiangyuan Series Ep. 6: A zero-waste life on plateau
cgtn.com
