Nestled in the heart of Zhejiang Province, Anji County, popularly known as the “Green County” of China, is celebrated as a beacon of sustainable development and ecological conservation in China, especially for its transformation from a simple agricultural community into a thriving model of eco-friendly practices, attracting visitors and researchers eager to learn from its successes.
Our group from Zhejiang University of Science and Technology, China, was welcomed by the breathtaking landscape of lush bamboo forests and pristine rivers. A collective sense of stepping into a living testament to the potential of sustainable development is what we marveled at. However, the true heart of Anji lay in the stories of its residents—stories that intertwine the past with the present.
We ventured deeper into Anji prepared to explore the region’s green initiatives and discover how Anji has become a pioneering example of sustainable development for others to follow.
Central to Anji County’s transformation into a green model is President Xi Jinping’s profound theory that “Lucid waters and lush mountains are invaluable assets.” This guiding principle emphasises the intrinsic value of natural resources, suggesting that environmental health is foundational to economic prosperity.
Rather than viewing nature solely as a means for development, this philosophy calls for a harmonious relationship between ecological preservation and economic growth as opposed to the adoption of industrialisation by many other regions, which often happens at the expense of their natural landscapes. By embracing President Xi’s ideology, Anji shifted its focus from short-term gains to long-term sustainability.
Bamboo, often referred to as “green gold,” plays a pivotal role in Anji’s economy and sustainability practices. From the perspective of an 80-year old local, one could have been faced with skepticism when the government introduced the idea of ecological civilization at a time where bamboo was once a means of survival, home, food and income.
The understanding of how to preserve the land would have been just a mere ideology with regards to saving some for future generations and continuing the cycle.
The Green Trailblazing County, Anji, now fully engaged in sustainable farming practices and businesses, thriving by offering bamboo-based products to visitors. Eco-friendly lodges and restaurants dotting the landscape, catering to those who seek to experience the beauty of nature without harming it.
One out of many recreational spots in the green county for visitors and explorers would be the Anji Bamboo Expo Garden – a stunning testament to the county’s commitment to sustainability and ecological conservation. Spanning over 2,000 acres, the garden showcases a breathtaking array of bamboo species, representing more than 100 varieties from around the world.
Visitors get the opportunity to stroll along winding paths that meander through lush bamboo groves, enjoy tranquil water features, and relax in beautifully landscaped areas designed to highlight the beauty and versatility of bamboo.
One of the garden’s unique attractions is its panda habitat, where visitors can observe these beloved creatures in a naturalistic setting. The garden is home to a small group of giant pandas, which not only captivates audiences with their playful antics but also serves as a reminder of the importance of wildlife conservation.
Educational programmes about bamboo’s role in the pandas’ diet and habitat help raise awareness about the need to protect both bamboo forests and their inhabitants.
The Anji Bamboo Expo Garden is not just a picturesque destination; it is a vibrant center for education and research on sustainable practices, making it a must-visit for anyone interested in the intersection of nature, culture, and conservation.
As we concluded our exploration of the Green County, we reflected on the myriad of sustainable practices that have transformed the region. Anji serves as a powerful example of how a community can successfully blend economic development with ecological stewardship. The lessons learned during our visit resonate deeply, to consider how we might advocate for similar practices in our own communities.
Anji’s pioneering approach shows that sustainable development isn’t merely a lofty idea, but a practical pathway to a prosperous future. Seeing how the community has thrived by balancing economic growth with environmental preservation, and presenting that, other regions worldwide can adopt this model as they strive for a better tomorrow.
By Nana Adi Appiah (Zhejiang University of Science and Technology, China)
