86.7 percent of rivers in Tonglu reach the top two classes of the five national water quality standards. [Photo provided to ehangzhou.gov.cn]

Efforts by Tonglu county, Hangzhou to protect its waters have improved the area's natural environment and resulted in numerous practical benefits.

By this April, 86.7 percent of rivers in Tonglu had reached the top two classes of the five national water quality standards, roughly equal with the percentage of water sources, natural reserves, and rare aquatic habitats. The local water ecosystem was also improved through the introduction of floating islands and water plants, which are effective in removing pollutants in the water.

Integrating modern agriculture with water control efforts has brought about new business patterns and led to industrial transformation. For example, in the She minority habitat of Zhongmen village, local residents discovered a way to raise wild rice shoots and soft-shelled turtles together, which solves the issue of breeding turtles in polluted waters and also improves the quality of water plants.

An improved environment has also attracted attention from tourists and investors. A rural tourism industry has turned local rivers and mountains, such as the fishing table of Yan Ziling and the Shanhu Mountain Rural Tourism Resort, into must-visit tourist attractions. It has also attracted nearly 2.76 billion yuan ($386.5 million) in investment in water-related industries.