China will invest 500 million yuan (US$62.50 million) for the protection of wetlands and the establishment of natural reserves this year.

 

With huge changes in the global climate and frequent human activity, wetlands are fading away at a dramatic speed, according to statistics from the United Nations. The number of species that live in wetlands is also decreasing significantly.

 

"This vanishing has posed a negative impact on the health of human beings, especially for people living in poverty in developing countries," said Yin Hong, standing vice director from the State Forestry Administration.

 

Up until 2003, the overall area of natural lakes in China larger than one square kilometer has dropped by 7,505 square kilometers from 91,019 square kilometers six years ago, Yin said.

 

As well, China discharges 43.95 billion tons of waste water every year, which surpasses the capability of the environment by 82 percent. Around 40.9 percent of the water in the seven major rivers of the country, like the Yangtze River and Huanghe River, are under pollution, Yin said.

 

"Fortunately, more and more people are coming to be aware of the importance of environmental protection," Yin said. "The huge investment of the government in this sector this year will be a good beginning for protection and reclaiming of lost wetlands in China."

 

(Shanghai Daily August 10, 2006)