UN@80: Youth visual stories second collection

The Temple of the Sky: Zizhu Temple is situated on Zizhu Mountain in Dingqing County, Changdu City, Xizang Autonomous Region, at an elevation of approximately 4,800 meters. It is among the highest-altitude monasteries in Xizang and also one of the oldest and most significant Bonpo temples. Built on the extremely steep and challenging terrain of Zizhu Mountain, the architecture cleverly uses the mountain's folds, caves, cliffs and platforms, incorporating halls, monks' quarters, meditation caves, stupas and more. It creates a stunning visual impact against the backdrop of the six peaks. The Bonpo idea of "harmony between man and nature" is reflected not only in the harmony between the architecture and the mountain but also in the ancient wisdom of humans coexisting with nature. Today, this respect for the environment and ecological protection aligns with the globally promoted Sustainable Development Goals. Traditional wisdom has gained new vitality in modern society, guiding the path toward sustainable development. /Zou Bei'er

Golden Scale Dream Vortex: The aquaculture area of Liujiaxia Reservoir depends on the suitable water temperature and clear water quality of the plateau waters to develop the cold-water fish breeding industry. Through close collaboration among industry, academia, and research, technological innovation is continuously promoted to achieve large-scale industrial growth. Every year, fry are released for stock enhancement, which not only improves the water ecological environment but also promotes the water body's self-repair, forming a beneficial cycle of "water cultivation -fish breeding-water protection" that supports each other. This development model, combining ecology and industry, has driven increased employment and income for local villagers. It also reflects a concept of prioritizing both economic growth and ecological protection, aligning with global sustainable development goals, and has become a typical practice of ecological prosperity for the people and fishery innovation in Gansu. /Zhang Xingzhe

Old Man: At a corner of the seawall, my attention was drawn to an old man. As the setting sun slowly shone down, he gazed in the direction of the setting sun. The unyielding spirit of the Chinese people, China's long history, personal beliefs, and the accumulation of Chinese culture have all settled in him and ultimately converged in those deep eyes. This look is heavier than an anchor, inspiring awe. What it carries is not just the weight of the years, but also reflects the continuation and perseverance of culture and society. It is the countless people like him who quietly contribute, allowing knowledge, beliefs, and values to flow in the community and enabling civilization to be passed on. Every act of guardianship and dedication quietly pushes society forward in a more inclusive and sustainable direction. /Chi Yuchen

Divers Among Jackfish: In this vibrant underwater photography scene, several divers are suspended in the deep blue sea, quietly watching a spectacular school of jackfish swirling nearby. Countless jackfish gather closely, resembling a flowing metal wall shimmering under the sunlight. The divers keep a gentle distance from the fish school, blending in while also appearing like calm observers, illustrating the harmonious coexistence between humans and marine life. Exploration and Awe - Humans are not the masters of the ocean, but visitors to this vast blue planet. Every act of respecting and protecting life makes the ocean more abundant and full of vitality. Just as the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals advocate, every protected sea area and every group of well-treated living beings contribute to the sustainable future of Earth. This also echoes the spirit of sharing and sustainability emphasized by the Global Development Initiative: human exploration should not aim at possession, but at sharing this blue world with countless lives. /Zhen Di

Scroll of Daluo Mountain and Waters: South of the Yangtze River, water systems, roads, and railways intersect and connect. The mist softly drapes the mountains, rivers, and houses in the morning light. The greenery and the city merge seamlessly, radiating a fresh and natural charm. I use an extra-long format to vividly display the layout and context of Wenzhou, capturing the poetic flow and cultural essence of harmony between humans and nature from the perspective of Chinese scroll landscapes. The city's prosperity and nature's vitality are intertwined within this single painting. This orderly and delicate relationship reflects the wisdom of sustainable development. Through mindful respect for water areas and conservation of green spaces, silent harmony between humanity and the environment is maintained, allowing the land to flourish. /Chi Yuchen

Kobe University in Japan: This is a photo taken at Kobe University in Japan, showing the urban skyline of the area where the university is located. The high-rise buildings not only demonstrate the vitality of the industry but also reflect the city's thoughtful consideration of space, resources, and the environment in innovation and development. While efficiently utilizing land and infrastructure, the concept of green and sustainable development is subtly integrated into urban planning. What the picture conveys is not only prosperity but also the wisdom of coexistence between humanity and the environment, as well as the positive force of the city's sustainable prosperity driven by innovation. /Ershiqihuasheng

Inception: The window lattice frames the blending of the Dubai skyline and the sea. While the city is climbing upward, it also puts the protection of the blue into action – by establishing marine protected areas, promoting sustainable fisheries, and restoring coastal ecosystems – allowing the brilliance of modern architecture to shine in harmony with the natural beauty of the ocean. What the girl in the picture is gazing at is not just the meeting of the sea and sky, but also a microcosm of humanity's respect for nature and peaceful coexistence with the ocean. Her silhouette seems to silently tell us that only by maintaining a sense of guardianship on the journey toward prosperity and development can the blue expanse continue to thrive. /Yu Yue