Chongqing - On March 23, the "Land-Sea: Wings&Sturgeons Global Youth Voice" event brought together 15 international students studying in Chongqing to Jiangjin's Youxi Town for a hands-on experience in Yangtze River conservation.
It's organized by Luhai International Communication Foundation and SEE Foundation Chongqing Project Centre. To support the Yangtze River Protection Initiative, the event aimed to raise awareness about the river's fragile ecosystem and engage young people in restoring its biodiversity.
The Yangtze River, often referred to as China's mother river, is home to a wide variety of species, including the critically endangered Acipenser sinensis (Chinese sturgeon, 中华鲟) and Acipenser dabryanus (Yangtze sturgeon, 长江鲟). These ancient fish, which have existed for over 140 million years, are now on the brink of extinction due to overfishing, habitat destruction, and the construction of dams that disrupt their migratory routes. The Chinese sturgeon, once abundant in the Yangtze, has seen its population plummet by over 97% since the 1970s, while the Yangtze sturgeon was declared only to have five left in the wild now. In response, the Chinese government has implemented the Yangtze River Protection Plan, which includes a 10-year fishing ban and initiatives like artificial fish nests to provide safe spawning environments for these rare species.
15 International Students gathered in Jiangjin to experience fish protection (Photo/Feng Xiaolou)
The event began with a visit to the National Nature Reserve for Rare and Endemic Fish in the Upper Reaches of the Yangtze River. Participants learned about the latest efforts and achievements in protecting the river's ecosystem, particularly the conservation of the Yangtze sturgeon. The students also witnessed a big Chinese sturgeon preserved for later release. "If there is a larger body of rare fish in Yangtze River, it means a better eco-system, which will enable other animals to come back and live here," said Schanelle, a Chongqing University graduate from Jamaica after she learned a lot during the visit.
Schanelle was visiting an exhibition about the rare fish in the Yangtze River. (Photo Feng/Xiaolou)
The highlight of the day was the hands-on construction of artificial fish nests. Under the guidance of local professionals, volunteers, and fishermen, the students used bamboo poles and reeds collected from nature to build the nests. They first created a square frame with bamboo and then tied reeds to the frame using thin wires. These nests provide a safe and stable environment for fish to lay their eggs, ensuring higher survival rates for the offspring.
The students are learning from local volunteers about making artificial fish nests (Photo/Feng Xiaolou)
"The artificial fish nest is a very smart idea," said Raquel Herrera, a Chongqing University Student from Chile, "because it uses eco-friendly materials from nature."
The event is a testament to the power of collective action in addressing environmental challenges. The event also fostered cross-cultural collaboration by involving international youth and highlighted the global significance of protecting natural resources.