Imagine a lake that was once so polluted, locals couldn't stand the smell 🤢. Fast forward to today, and Yundang Lake is the sparkling gem of Xiamen, a must-see for travelers and a source of pride for residents! 🌟
Located in Xiamen, southeast China's Fujian Province, Yundang Lake has undergone a breathtaking transformation. Back in the 1970s, the lake became an inner body of water after land was reclaimed from the sea to boost grain production 🌾. But as factories popped up and the city grew, pollution took over, turning the lake into a toxic mess 💔.
By the early 1980s, things were grim. Over 100 factories were dumping waste directly into the water, and untreated sewage was flowing in from hundreds of thousands of residents. The lake was full of garbage and heavy pollutants—it was far from the picturesque scene it is today.
But the story doesn't end there! In the mid-to-late 1980s, the community and government teamed up for an epic environmental comeback 🌳🔥. Factories were shut down or relocated, sewage treatment plants were built, and fresh seawater was channeled into the lake to breathe new life into it.
Local heroes like retiree Chen Yajin took charge 🌟. As the chief overseeing the waters, Chen found a new purpose by inspecting the lake and reporting issues to authorities. \"The government really listens to us,\" he says. \"It's been an amazing journey watching the lake come back to life.\"
Today, Yundang Lake is known as the \"city's drawing room\" 🖼️. With clear waters and abundant aquatic life, it's a vibrant spot for both residents and tourists. Whether you're strolling along the shore or just soaking in the views, it's hard to believe this was once a polluted wasteland.
The success of Yundang Lake is more than just a local win—it's a shining example for other cities in China and around the world 🌍. As we gear up for the United Nations Environment Assembly (UNEA-6) happening in Nairobi next February, Yundang Lake stands as proof that with collaboration and determination, we can tackle environmental challenges head-on 💪.
UNEA-6 will focus on how multilateralism can address global crises like pollution, biodiversity loss, and climate change. Maybe the story of Yundang Lake will inspire leaders and communities everywhere to make a splash in their own backyards! 🏞️✨
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
