As autumn approaches in Haidian, the skies are clear and the air is fresh, inviting birds to dance across the landscape. The rolling green hills of Cuihu National Urban Wetland Park create a stunning backdrop and demonstrate the perfect harmony between nature and the city.
A new arrival: Birds settling in Haidian
In spring 2024, the bird banding station at Cuihu made an exciting discovery: a black-faced bunting, a rare visitor from Mongolia, was spotted in the park. This female bird, marked with a metal ring from the Khurkh Bird Ringing Station in Mongolia, represents a significant milestone as it is the first of its kind recorded in Beijing from another country.
Cuihu has become a hotspot for various bird species. Recent records show that the park has welcomed 7 new bird species, including the vinous-throated parrotbill and the silver-throated bushtit. In total, over 305 bird species have been observed, including 15 nationally protected species.
The playful long-tailed tits, affectionately known as "Little Fat Jiu," have captured the hearts of visitors. Birdwatchers eagerly await their appearances, often sharing their delightful encounters and photographs. “Seeing flocks of these charming birds is a highlight!” exclaims one visitor.
Cuihu is not just a sanctuary for birds; it reflects Haidian’s commitment to ecological preservation. The district actively embraces the philosophy that “lucid waters and lush mountains are invaluable assets,” implementing measures for water resource protection and ecological restoration.
Haidian has successfully established itself as a National Demonstration Zone for Ecological Civilization, promoting a beautiful environment alongside high-quality economic development. The air quality has claimed the top position among urban districts for nine consecutive years, while water quality and soil safety continue to improve.
As Haidian strives for a cleaner, greener future, residents and visitors alike are witnessing a remarkable transformation. The ecological environment is not only flourishing but is also a source of pride for the community.
Clear blue skies flood Moments on social media
"The sky is as blue as a cartoon!" "The clouds roll under the setting sun. What a breathtakingly beautiful scenery!" "You can see all the way to the mountains, the weather is perfect!" Just after the start of the solar term marking the Beginning of Autumn, "Haidian Blue" floods social media moments, with many residents heading to places like the Summer Palace and Xiangshan Park to check in and enjoy the rare coolness as the summer heat subsides.
Whether the air is good or not, the residents feel it most directly. In Haidian District, the focus is on key areas of air pollution like diesel freight vehicles, dust, and volatile organic compounds. Efforts are continuously made to coordinate the control of various pollutants, further solidifying the achievements of the "coal-free" campaign with effective measures and remedial actions. The district is committed to winning the battle for blue skies, with PM2.5 levels having fallen by 64% compared to ten years ago, and the number of good air quality days increased by 123 days, significantly improving air quality.
Furthermore, the district's Bureau of Ecology and Environment continuously strengthens the prevention and control of air pollution with precise, scientific, and legal measures. Relying on technological means such as the "urban brain," the efficiency and precision of environmental governance are enhanced. The development of air quality monitoring scenarios and the application of satellite remote sensing technology have enabled precise identification and effective management of pollution sources. These innovative measures not only enhance the level of intelligence in environmental governance but also inject new momentum into Haidian's green development.
Embracing new trends in green living
"Want to learn some environmental science basics? Protect the environment with these small actions!" On the site of World Environment Day on June 5, 2024, volunteers distribute brochures to residents participating in the event.
A good ecological environment cannot be achieved without the active participation and maintenance by residents. In its operations, the district's Bureau of Ecology and Environment focuses on enhancing residents' awareness of ecological and environmental protection. Through initiatives like various environmental science outreach activities, environment knowledge is popularized, which helps to boost residents' awareness and participation in environmental protection. These efforts not only raise residents' environmental awareness but also create a favorable social atmosphere for the ecological civilization construction in Haidian.
From energy conservation and emission reduction to ecological management and the application of technology, Haidian District's achievements in ecological and environmental protection reflect its determination and capability to practice green development. Going forward, Haidian will continue to focus on continuously improving the quality of the ecological environment as its core objective, advancing the modernization of ecological and environmental management capabilities, and taking more solid steps on the path of ecological civilization construction.
Translator: DING Zhizhong
Reviewer: Ding Hongwei
