The magnificent Yangtze River is witnessing a remarkable revival in its ecological health, marking a significant milestone halfway through a 10-year fishing moratorium.
This vital waterway, which is the focus of a $2.7 billion restoration initiative, had suffered extensive damage due to years of damming, overfishing, pollution, and neglect. However, a recent study reveals that fish biomass has tripled, the population of the Yangtze finless porpoise has increased, and there is a notable rise in the number of large game fish species.
In 2021, GNN highlighted the importance of the Yangtze’s fishing ban. As one of China’s three great rivers and the third-longest river globally, its estuary in Shanghai is among the busiest freshwater ports worldwide. The Yangtze supports about 60% of China’s freshwater fisheries, providing employment for over 200,000 individuals.
Water has long been integral to Chinese culture, with societal organization around water management dating back to 4,000 BCE. The founding myth of the Yellow Emperor, who tamed the tumultuous waters of the Yellow River, underscores the significance of rivers as both economic lifelines and revered sites.
Yet, the Yangtze faced challenges similar to many rivers globally. Industrialization brought continuous dam construction, sand mining, and pollution from factories lining its shores, leading to a decline in its ecological health. As China thrived economically in the 21st century, calls for stronger protection of the Yangtze grew louder, tragically highlighting the extinction of the Baiji, a freshwater dolphin once revered as a goddess.
This heartbreaking loss likely sparked an ambitious restoration effort, spearheaded by an international team of freshwater biologists. Their solution involved a decade-long fishing moratorium and a comprehensive welfare program to support displaced fishermen.
As part of this initiative, 110,000 fishing boats were removed from the water with compensation provided, shoreline mining activities were halted, and significant improvements in water quality were mandated. The outcomes have been astonishing; just halfway through the 10-year ban, decades of ecological degradation appear to be reversing.
The study’s authors noted, “The seven-decadal biodiversity loss was halted with improvements in fish biomass, body condition, species diversity, and initial recovery of threatened species.” They emphasized that eliminating fishing pressure was crucial to this recovery, alongside efforts aimed at enhancing water quality, restoring habitats, and reducing vessel traffic.
China’s commitment to environmental restoration is showcasing the power of collective action, proving that positive change is possible when communities and governments unite for a common cause.
