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Phase 2 of Poyang Lake initiative improves outcomes for communities and biodiversity

© Lanhua Wang

 

Conservation International China, with support from RGE/Sateri, continues to lead efforts in conserving Poyang Lake, China's largest freshwater lake. This multi-faceted project focuses on sustainable management and habitat conservation and has achieved significant milestones, including the enhancement of protected areas, the development of sustainable livelihoods and the promotion of environmental education.

The recently completed second phase of the project focused on delivering an integrated, science-based governance approach involving local communities and government stakeholders. Activities ranged from assessing the lake's health to enhancing protected area management and advocating for improved conservation strategies, especially for key species like the Yangtze finless porpoise and the pheasant-tailed jacana (pictured above).

 

 

Pamela presenting to the community
© Conservation International
Yasser presenting to the community
© Conservation International

At the Poyang Lake International Birdwatching Festival, young leaders from Conservation International Singapore’s 10 for Zero program got to see firsthand the amazing work being done for sustainability in Poyang. Yasser Amin, Chief Stridy Officer of Stridy, shared his wealth of experience in sustainability and community building. Pamela Low, Founder of Tingkats, shared her expertise in climate action and sustainable development.

Our work has gained international and national recognition, exemplified by events like the Poyang Lake International Birdwatching Festival and participation in the RAMSAR COP14, where best practices in wetland conservation were shared. The commendation from government representatives underscores the project's effectiveness in safeguarding critical habitats and supporting endangered species while benefitting local communities that depend on the lake's ecosystem services.