Jinyun turns green into gold

Jinyun county in Lishui, East China's Zhejiang province, is a shining example of how to balance ecological preservation with economic growth.

Guided by the philosophy that lucid waters and lush mountains are invaluable assets, Jinyun county has transformed its natural resources into economic assets.

The Qiaoxi artificial wetland, a popular tourist spot, exemplifies this transformation. Thanks to a 72 million yuan ($10.02 million) investment in water purification infrastructure, the wetland has become a beloved destination.

Jinyun's commitment to ecological restoration is also evident in its innovative use of abandoned quarries. These sites have been repurposed into public spaces that host cultural events, boosting local tourism and hospitality industries.

Ducks play in the fields of jiaobai, also known as wild rice stems. [Photo/IC]

Jinyun's "jiaobai-duck co-culture" agricultural system merges traditional practices with modern ecological techniques. Jiaobai is also known as wild rice stem.

This system not only improves crop yields and duck production but also attracts tourists, enhancing local incomes. The system is now a core agricultural heritage site, with a digital platform allowing users to adopt ducks online, generating significant revenue for the community.

Jinyun's success extends to its parrot-themed eco-park, which attracts thousands of visitors, creates jobs, and boosts local businesses. The park's founder, Zhu Jiangbei, leverages the county's pristine environment to promote parrot breeding and research.

Through these initiatives, Jinyun county exemplifies the harmonious integration of ecological beauty, industrial prosperity, and community wealth, paving the way for a sustainable future.