Conservation International and Sateri have unveiled the third phase of the Poyang Lake Ecosystem Restoration Initiative, a key milestone in restoring China’s largest freshwater lake. Since 2019, the initiative has achieved significant progress in protecting the lake, which is vital for flood regulation, biodiversity, and the livelihoods of over 45 million people in Jiangxi Province.
The project has strengthened management across 473,000 hectares of protected areas, trained 2,000 wetland rangers, and improved habitats for 350 wildlife species, including the critically endangered Siberian crane and finless porpoise. It has also established artificial wetlands to treat 56,000 tonnes of wastewater annually and supported 25,000 locals through education and sustainable livelihood programs.
The newly launched phase focuses on advancing biodiversity conservation, restoring small wetlands, and promoting climate resilience through research on the Freshwater Health Index. Backed by the Jiujiang Municipal Government, the initiative aligns with Sateri’s 2030 sustainability goals and the UN Sustainable Development Goals.
“This collaboration demonstrates the power of partnerships in balancing ecological protection with human well-being,” said Zhang Cheng, Program Director at Conservation International China. Vice President CaiZhichao of Sateri emphasized the company's commitment to biodiversity and the bioeconomy, highlighting its use of innovative, low-carbon practices.