Lens on a decade of Shandong's ecological revival

Zhong Fusheng's work documents a decade of reforestation, wetland restoration, and biodiversity gains. [Photo/Dazhong News]

Behind these inspiring wildlife stories is a solid foundation of ecological restoration and green development. For example, Jinan has cut energy use energy consumption per 10,000 yuan ($1,471.54) of GDP by 26 percent and water use by 29 percent, with PM 2.5 falling 34.7 percent since 2021. All State-controlled water sections have maintained excellent quality for five consecutive years. Dongying's Yellow River Delta now hosts 406 bird species, up from 187. In 2025 alone, 536 Oriental storks bred there, making it the world's largest breeding ground for the species.