In an exclusive interview, Lidia Brito, UNESCO's assistant director-general for natural sciences, highlighted China's efforts toward sustainable development. She explained that these efforts extensively reflect UNESCO's vision through the restoration of degraded ecosystems. Restoring these ecosystems helps bring back the ecological services that nature provides, while also creating livelihood opportunities.

According to Brito, what China is doing is very much aligned with UNESCO's work. She cited the Wuyishan Biosphere Reserve in China as an outstanding example. This biosphere reserve promotes cultivation with biodiversity conservation and a thriving economy. It features a thriving tourism industry that creates sustainable livelihoods for the communities protecting the biodiversity, while also protecting the culture and heritage.

Click here to watch the full interview.