WWF at Work in China
Jan 28th, 2010 by wwftravel
The Yangtze River © Michel Gunther / WWF-Canon
An astonishing amount of economic development and a growing population have turned China into a region struggling to manage the resulting environmental challenges. WWF was the first environmental group invited by the government to work in China 30 years ago. From restoring the Yangtze River wetlands to environmental education and panda conservation, WWF seeks to pair up the country’s economic expansion with a sustainable approach to conservation.
Among WWF’s current projects in China:
Saving the giant panda
The giant panda is universally loved—and has a special significance for WWF as it has been the organization’s symbol since it was formed in 1961. WWF has been active in giant panda conservation since 1980, when it supported scientists’ field studies in the Wolong Nature Reserve. Today, WWF is working closely with the Chinese government on the first national panda survey in more than a decade. In an analysis that could shape regional conservation efforts well into the next century, WWF scientists are using satellite imagery to assess remaining habitat in the Qinling Mountains and also will review threats to pandas from the encroachment of human populations and the construction of logging roads.
Guaranteeing a future for forests with certification
WWF helped introduce the concept of timber certification into China. It cosponsored (with the State Forest Administration) China’s first conference on certification. A National Working Group on Forest Certification in China was established in May 2001. China now has four certified forests and more than 90 wood processing companies that have been certified for chain-of-custody under the FSC scheme.
Improving management of water resources
Dams and dikes alter the natural flow of a river. They block migratory patterns of fish species and sever the ecological relationship between the river and its floodplains. WWF works to restore the waterways that connect lakes to the Yangtze and is advising locals on a sustainable hydroelectric power plan that strikes a balance between the needs for energy production and environmental integrity. WWF has reconnected 11 lakes to the river.
Providing environmental education
For the past 10 years, WWF has initiated and developed practical methodology and guidance for schools and universities in the country. Currently WWF is supplying schools with educational resources to help raise awareness on the importance of forests and providing opportunities for students to work in their communities to promote sustainable “forest products” consumption.
Visit China with WWF.
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