Xizang's 75-year green development journey

This year marks the 75th anniversary of the peaceful liberation of Xizang. Over the past seven decades, the region has undergone a sweeping economic and social transformation that has brought about a significant improvement in people's livelihoods. A development miracle characterized as "striding millennia in just a few decades" has not, however, come at any ecological cost. A commitment to harmonious coexistence between humanity and nature has seen Xizang respect, adapt to and protect its natural environment.

Its pursuit of green development has resulted in Xizang's ecological environment being recognized as among the finest in the world today. The region has 47 nature reserves and nine national forest parks, and over 50% of its land area is under special ecological protection. Its major rivers and lakes are noted for the purity of their water, its forest coverage has risen from less than 1% at the time of peaceful liberation in 1951 to 12.5% today, and its grasslands are thriving.

Xizang's pursuit of advanced ecological development is based on a long-term commitment that combines natural restoration and human-led ecological rehabilitation. The conservation and systematic management of its mountains, rivers, forests, farmlands, lakes, grasslands and deserts are integrated under a policy of protection-first.

The region's ecological strengths are being steadily transformed into economic benefits. The cultural and tourism industry is continuing to grow, with more than 70 million visitors recorded in 2025, according to reports from the 2026 culture and tourism work conference of the region. Emerging sectors such as clean energy and the digital economy are also thriving. The value of Xizang's lucid waters and lush mountains is becoming increasingly evident, while its capacity for self-sustained development is continuing to expand.