Yunnan's biodiversity nurtures miracles of nature

Introduction:

Known as the "Kingdom of Plants" and "Kingdom of Animals", Southwest China's Yunnan province has a diverse landscape and rich biodiversity.

Despite covering only 4.1 percent of China's land area, Yunnan has more than 50 percent of the country's plant species, 70 percent of its animal and fungal species, and over 80 percent of its vegetation types.

From towering mountains to tropical rainforest, from plateau lakes to rushing rivers, from peculiar karst landscapes to vibrant red earth, nature's extraordinary craftsmanship has not only endowed Yunnan with breathtaking beauty but also nurtured miracles of life.

It is one of the most species-rich yet ecologically vulnerable regions globally, holding vital importance for biodiversity in China and the world.

First part

Yunnan's rich biodiversity is due to its unique location, complicated landscapes and diverse climate. It has almost all ecosystems on Earth except for ocean and desert.

The province has recorded 25,426 species across 11 major biological groups, including lichens, ferns, fish, reptiles, birds and mammals. Among these, 151 species of wild plants and 242 species of wildlife are under national protection, representing 41 percent and 57.1 percent of the country's protected species, respectively.

Yunnan's rich biodiversity resources provide a critical foundation for national biological and ecological security, as well as socioeconomic development. It serves as a vital source for China's bio-industry, an irreplaceable core strategic resource, a key biodiversity treasure trove and a crucial ecological security barrier in southwestern regions.

Second part:

Yunnan's agricultural industry has been booming. For example, it's one of the areas most suitable for flower plantation. Last year, the province's flower planting area reached 130,000 hectares, including 23,333 hectares dedicated to fresh cut flowers, making it the world's largest producer.

In the first quarter of this year, Yunnan exported 9,134 metric tons of fresh cut flowers, valued at 270 million yuan ($37.5 million), up 48.2 percent year-on-year. Yunnan accounts for more than 98 percent of China's coffee plantation area and production. In recent years, both the volume and price of coffee have risen.

This harvest season, over 70 percent of the coffee has been picked, with increased yields.

The price of green coffee beans has reached 60 yuan per kilogram, while premium beans command prices as high as 80 yuan per kg, demonstrating significant growth in production and profitability.

Yunnan is also the origin of the world's tea trees and boasts the richest resources of ancient tea plants. By 2023, the province's dry tea leaf production hit 557,000 tons. The certified area for green and organic tea gardens stood at 176,467 hectares, ranking first in China.

Yunnan has developed a thriving fruit industry, featuring blueberries, grapes, citrus, apples and others. Last year, the export value of Yunnan fruits reached 5.27 billion yuan. These products are sold to 117 countries and regions. Meanwhile, the import value of fruits surged to nearly 11.89 billion yuan, hitting a record high. In the first quarter of this year, Yunnan's fruit import and export value grew by 54.3 percent.

Third part:

Yunnan is home to 26 indigenous ethnic groups. This cultural diversity is reflected not only in language but also in clothing, cuisine, festivals, music and dance. People from different ethnic groups have frequent exchanges.

The province shares deep cultural ties with neighboring Southeast Asian countries. Guided by principles such as "living in harmony with nature, respecting its power and utilizing resources wisely", Yunnan's ethnic groups have developed a rich variety of adaptive and symbiotic lifestyles.

By the end of last year, Yunnan boasted three UNESCO World Natural Heritage Sites, three World Cultural Heritage Sites, eight national historical and cultural cities and 777 traditional Chinese villages.

Fourth part:

Yunnan adheres to an ecology-first, green development approach, transforming its ecological and resource advantages into industrial strengths. It vigorously promotes turning "lucid waters and lush mountains" into "gold and silver mountains", striving to forge a new green development path that harmonizes ecological beauty, industrial prosperity and public wealth.

The water quality of its nine plateau lakes has shown overall improvement. Batches of eco-friendly urban and rural areas, as well as pristine rivers and lakes, have blossomed across Yunnan. The province ranks among the nation's leaders in forest area, coverage rate and timber reserves.

Whether strolling through streets or wandering by forested lakeshores, people can feel their living environments becoming more beautiful. Green, low-carbon and civilized, healthy production and lifestyles have taken deep root.

The brand of "Living a life called Yunnan" has gained popularity, emerging as a Yunnan model for building a "Beautiful China" and illustrating the continuous enhancement of happiness through a sustainable way of life.

Contact the writers at chenmeiling@chinadaily.com.cn