Guangzhou recently held an event to showcase outstanding cases of building beautiful rivers and lakes, with Haizhu Lake and Shiliugang River in Haizhu district among the highlighted examples.

Haizhu Lake. [Photo/WeChat account: gzhzfb]

Haizhu Lake, an integral part of Guangzhou Haizhu National Wetland Park, forms a water network with six surrounding rivers, serving as a habitat for numerous water birds.

The project, guided by an ecological approach, has taken measures such as formulating legal frameworks and establishing crucial habitats to effectively protect wetland resources.

Over the course of more than a decade of protection and restoration efforts, the number of plant species in Haizhu Wetland has increased from 294 to 835, insect species from 42 to 738, and bird species from 72 to 198.

The Shiliugang River. [Photo/WeChat account: gzhzfb]

The Shiliugang River acts as a primary water source for Haizhu Lake, vast fruit orchards, and the Haizhu Wetland. By rebuilding water gates, connecting water systems, and carrying out comprehensive rectification and technological empowerment, the river's water quality has improved, ecosystems have been restored, the economy has transitioned, and cultural traditions have been preserved.

Following the river's governance, Shiliugang River now boasts clear waters and verdant banks, with increased aquatic biodiversity. The revitalized ecosystem has catalyzed industrial development, yielding ecological, social and economic benefits.

The successful experiences from these exemplary cases contribute invaluable lessons for advancing ecological civilization and fostering sustainable urban development.