The professor said that at the same time, the wetlands were playing a key role in the protection of native species diversity, highlighting local landscape features, cultivating a beautiful recreational environment for local residents and upgrading the urban quality of Haikou as a city. To date, Haikou has cleared more than 7.2 million square meters of black and odorous water areas through ecological restoration. Water quality has improved significantly and beautiful wetlands have been created along the rivers, lakes and seashores.

"Haikou has established a strong leadership headed by senior city officials, supported by professional associations and a growing number of volunteers who are actively involved in promoting public awareness and monitoring management of the wetlands," said Chen Song, director of the Haikou Wetland Protection Center.