Xiamen celebrated National Ecology Day on Aug 15 with a series of events at Xiamen Sea World. Under the theme "Building a green foundation for Chinese modernization," the event featured case studies of ecological conservation efforts and interactive sessions that encouraged public participation. 

Data from Xiamen Xiatanwei Mangrove Park, presented by Yang Shengchang, associate professor at Xiamen University's College of the Environment and Ecology, showed significant ecological improvements since restoration efforts began. The number of fish, shellfish, and crustacean species increased by a factor of 2.4, with their biomass rising by 2.99, 4.76, and 1.19 times respectively. Bird species in the area have also seen steady year-on-year growth.

Xiamen has carried out two phases of mangrove restoration. An innovative "chopstick seedling" technique was introduced to boost the survival rate of mangrove seedlings under challenging conditions to over 75 percent, while proper planting density helped raise the forestation rate to more than 85 percent. Today, the 850,000-square-meter site stands as Fujian's largest artificially restored mangrove ecological park.

"Some people ask why we don't plant mangroves across all the mudflats in Xiatanwei," said Yang at the event. "Technically, it's possible, but from a biodiversity conservation perspective, it's unnecessary." He explained the science behind the restoration: the project has always been about leaving room for nature, allowing marine life to thrive in their own habitats.

From a muddy wasteland to a vibrant coastal forest, the Xiatanwei story captures Xiamen's drive for sustainable marine development and its enduring bond with the sea.