China opened more than 900 national wetland parks in over two decades

Since 2012, China has implemented over 3,700 wetland restoration projects, adding or rehabilitating more than 1 million hectares of wetlands under its National Wetland Protection Plan (2022–30).

The country now boasts 82 internationally recognized wetlands and 58 nationally significant sites, with plans to integrate 11 million hectares into its national park system. Key initiatives, such as mangrove conservation and invasive species control, have further solidified China's role in global wetland governance.

As China's first national wetland park, the Xixi wetland has become a blueprint for sustainable urban development. By adhering to "ecological priority" principles, Hangzhou has transformed the 10.38-square-kilometer park into a biodiversity hotspot, with vascular plants increasing by 750 species, insects by 441, and birds by 155 since 2005.

"Xixi's 'gold-inlaid-jade' model — prioritizing wetland conservation while fostering surrounding economic growth — proves that ecology and prosperity can coexist," Wang said.