Published: 15:35, August 6, 2024 | Updated: 17:15, August 6, 2024
Shenzhen's mangrove conservation: A model of urban-nature balance
By Wang Zhan
This aerial photo taken on Feb 1, 2023 shows the view of a mangrove wetland in Futian National Nature Reserve in Shenzhen, south China's Guangdong province. (PHOTO / XINHUA)

The International Day for the Conservation of the Mangrove Ecosystem underscores the need to balance urban development with nature conservation. In Shenzhen, this is clearly visible, with bustling cityscapes adjacent to tranquil mangrove forests.

The mangroves host various wildlife, including orb-weaving spiders, fiddler crabs, mudskippers, and damselflies that thrive in this unique ecosystem.

Birds are observed at a mangrove wetland in Futian, Shenzhen, South China's Guangdong province, Feb 1, 2023. (PHOTO / XINHUA)

Guangdong has the largest mangrove area in China, with 84 protected wetlands forming a comprehensive system. 

Recent legislative efforts, such as the revised Guangdong Wetland Protection Regulations and the Guangdong Wetland Protection Plan (2023-2035), have strengthened the foundation for wetland ecosystem restoration. Consequently, Guangdong's mangroves are experiencing growth, a rare occurrence globally.

Birds are observed at a mangrove wetland in Futian, Shenzhen, South China's Guangdong province, Feb 1, 2023. (PHOTO / XINHUA)
Eurasian wigeons are observed at a mangrove wetland in Futian, Shenzhen, South China's Guangdong province, Nov 11, 2022. (PHOTO / XINHUA)

In Shenzhen Bay, mangroves from Shenzhen and Hong Kong have intertwined, symbolizing growing environmental cooperation between Guangdong, Hong Kong, and Macao.

This summer, the annual "Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Nature Education Season" features numerous activities promoting nature conservation. Guangdong has also been hosting its second "Wetland Protection Week", with events aimed at increasing ecological awareness since July 26.

Translated by China Daily from the original report in Chinese as published on the official website of Southcn.com.