A formal assessment of Zhuhai's piloting of a National Water Ecological Civilization model concludes that the city has made exemplary progress toward "respecting, loving, protecting, saving, and cherishing water."

The Ministry of Water Resources named Zhuhai a National Pilot City to develop a water ecological civilization in 2014. On Dec 20, an Acceptance Team, which included experts from the Pearl River Hydraulic Research Institute, met after on-site inspections. They determined that Zhuhai has provided solid institutional support for the program and shown strong execution ability.

Research documents, implementation measures, and a three-year action plan have been released over the years. They all stress local management and government guidance while encouraging market operation and public involvement.

Damenkou Wetland Park in Jinwan District [Photo by Zhang Zhou / Zhuhai Daily]

In all, 7.9 billion yuan ($1.1 billion) was spent on 55 key projects. These include abstraction works for the Damenkou Waterway in Jinwan District among eight demonstration projects. Furthermore, 68 administrative villages now have sewage treatment facilities.

The accomplishments have reached or surpassed targeted indicators.

According to a local official, the process is guided by advanced scientific concepts. Ecological principles are considered in all aspects from exploitation to utilization, governance, allocation, conservation, and protection as well as water conservancy planning, construction, and management.

The goal is harmonious coexistence between humans and natural water resources with a distinctive pattern featuring Zhuhai characteristics. Underlying it all is enhanced public awareness of the need for water conservation.