CGTN host Tianran rolled up his sleeves this week at Wuzhizhou Island, participating in Hainan's innovative coral restoration program. Armed with waterproof cement and precision tools, teams meticulously attach juvenile coral fragments to submerged metal frames – underwater nurseries designed to rehabilitate reefs damaged by climate change and human activity.
This initiative has evolved into an unexpected tourism draw since its 2024 launch. Visitors can now take guided eco-dives to observe the 'coral gardeners' at work, with over 3,000 tourists participating in planting activities last year. 'It transforms sunscreen-slathered vacationers into environmental stewards,' remarked marine biologist Dr. Lin Wei, who oversees the project.
The restored reefs already show promising results: Fish populations have increased 22% year-on-year in treated zones, according to 2025 monitoring data. For Hainan authorities balancing ecological protection with economic growth, such programs represent a blueprint for sustainable coastal development.
