China's Wetland Conservation Efforts Set a Shining Example for the World

Strategic Insights -

China's achievements in wetland conservation have been hailed as a model for the world, thanks to its comprehensive approach to wetland protection, innovative legislation, and unwavering commitment to international cooperation. The country has made significant progress in protecting its vast wetland ecosystems, which cover approximately 56.35 million hectares, ranking fourth in the world. This success has not only benefited China's biodiversity but also contributed to the health of cross-border ecosystems by integrating wetland protection with other environmental goals, such as migratory bird conservation.

Key Takeaways:

  • China has made significant progress in wetland conservation over the past 20 years, marking a turning point in its relationship with nature.
  • The country has built a comprehensive legal framework for wetland conservation through its Wetland Protection Law, effective since June 2022.
  • China has achieved legislative breakthroughs and forged capacity-building partnerships with other countries, contributing to global wetland protection efforts.
  • The country has created nine new international wetland cities, bringing the total number of such cities in China to 22, the highest in the world.
  • Wetland Protection Law has been praised as a "shining example" to the world, providing a unique blend of legislation, inventory, data management, and city-level governance.
  • China's efforts have raised awareness and sparked a significant increase in global interest in wetland conservation over the past years.
  • The country is a key player in safeguarding the health of wetland ecosystems, with its status as a major investment partner in the world and its connections to other important wetlands worldwide.
  • China has been actively supporting many African countries in wetland governance through legislative exchanges, technical training, and talent development.
  • The International Mangrove Center (IMC) in Shenzhen, launched in 2024, promotes global mangrove conservation, sustainable use, and international cooperation.
  • China's model of balancing development and environmental protection is being increasingly recognized and emulated by other countries.

Statistics:

  • China covers approximately 56.35 million hectares of wetlands, ranking fourth in the world.
  • The country has built 56.35 million hectares of wetlands, ranking fourth globally.
  • China has created 22 international wetland cities, the highest number in the world.
  • The country has established 82 Wetlands of International Importance and five national parks.
  • China launched the International Mangrove Center (IMC) in 2024 to promote global mangrove conservation, sustainable use, and international cooperation.
  • The Mangrove Conservation Foundation, a private foundation based in China, has carried out programs in African countries such as Madagascar and Kenya to help preserve mangroves.

Sources:

  • Xinhua writers Xu Zheng, Tafara Mugwara, "The success in wetland conservation has not only benefited China's biodiversity, but also contributed to the health of cross-border ecosystems by integrating wetland protection with other environmental goals, such as migratory bird conservation", July 31, 2025.
  • Yan Zhen, deputy head of China's National Forestry and Grassland Administration, "China has continuously improved its legal and institutional framework for wetland conservation, comprehensively protected wetland ecosystems, and actively engaged in international cooperation", July 2025.
  • Musonda Mumba, secretary general of the Convention on Wetlands, "China's Wetland Protection Law is a 'shining example' to the world, providing a comprehensive legal framework for wetland conservation, restoration, management, and sustainable use", July 2025.
  • Xia Jun, director general of the International Cooperation Department at China's National Forestry and Grassland Administration, "China has launched the International Mangrove Center (IMC) to promote global mangrove conservation, sustainable use, and international cooperation", July 2025.
  • Sun Lili, co-founder and executive board chair of the Mangrove Conservation Foundation, "The Mangrove Conservation Foundation has been carrying out programs in African countries such as Madagascar and Kenya to help preserve mangroves", July 2025.