Imagine strolling along the shores of Yundang Lake in Xiamen, the Chinese mainland, with lush trees swaying in the breeze, crystal-clear waters reflecting the sky, and flocks of water birds dancing above. Sounds like a scene from a dream, right? 🌅 But this wasn't always the case.
Back in the day, Yundang Lake was infamous as the \"black water lake.\" Chen Yajin, a 65-year-old retired teacher, recalls, \"When people walked by, they held their breath and steered clear of the lake as fast as they could.\" The stench was unbearable, and the once-beautiful lake was choked by pollution. 😷
In the early 1980s, rapid urbanization turned the lake into a dumping ground for sewage, industrial waste, and garbage. The situation was dire, but the city wasn't ready to give up on its gem. In 1984, Xiamen's authorities launched a bold campaign to revive Yundang Lake. 🚀
They rolled up their sleeves and got to work: clearing sludge, reinforcing the lake's shores, relocating polluting factories, and installing sewage treatment facilities. To breathe new life into the lake, pipelines were set up to boost water exchange with the sea. The cleared mud? It was used to craft a tiny island in the lake, now a bustling habitat for water birds. 🐦🌴
Fast forward to today, and Yundang Lake is a testament to what dedication can achieve. Over 80 species of water birds call it home, and with six beautiful parks surrounding it, the area has become a favorite \"recreational center\" for locals, according to Chen. Whether it's jogging, picnicking, or just soaking in the serene vibes, residents embrace the lake as their own slice of paradise. 🌟
Yundang Lake's transformation is more than an environmental success story; it's a beacon of hope showing how communities can come together to restore and cherish natural wonders. Next time you're in Xiamen, make sure to visit Yundang Lake—where nature and city life harmoniously blend. 🌿❤️
Reference(s):
China's coastal city witnesses ecological restoration progress
cgtn.com
