Community-Driven Conservation Efforts in Nagchu, Tibet
In the vibrant region of Nagchu within the Tibetan Autonomous Region, a significant number of local inhabitants are actively engaged in safeguarding and restoring their water ecosystems, bolstered by effective governmental support.
Local Workforce Engaged in Ecological Stewardship
The local administration employs residents to oversee and protect diverse natural habitats, including lakes, rivers, and forests. As reported by the city’s water conservation bureau, over 90,000 individuals from a population of approximately 505,400 have taken on roles as ecological guardians; among these are more than 14,000 specifically designated as water ecosystem conservators. Most participants receive financial assistance through government subsidies. By year’s end, these grassroots efforts are projected to yield around 32 million yuan (approximately $4.4 million) in compensation for their contributions.
Generational Commitment to Environmental Protection
Tsega serves as an ecological monitor in Marchu township within Amdo county and has dedicated decades to preserving the local water environment. Residing at altitudes exceeding 5,000 meters above sea level in Lothe—home to the Jangchu Diruk Glacier which marks the Yangtze River’s origin—Tsega highlights his community’s longstanding awareness of ecological preservation as a cultural value stemming from generations past.
“Villagers recognize that our snow-capped glaciers are critical sources of drinking water,” Tsega states with pride. The January township authorities have assigned over 300 ecological caretakers tasked with regular cleanup initiatives along rivers and wetlands surrounding glacial areas.
During these cleanups, villagers actively collect trash such as plastic bags and beverage containers found along waterways or open grasslands while encouraging both locals and visitors alike to avoid littering during outdoor excursions.
“The streams originating here not only supply drinking water for thousands downstream but also sustain wildlife within our river basins,” Tsega emphasizes. “This understanding fosters a strong commitment among pastoral communities towards maintaining clean waterways.”
Active Participation Across Demographics
Sodrub is another custodian from Lhegan village within Nyanrong county who describes how over 60 environmental caretakers work collectively each week to maintain cleanliness across their terrain: “Every seven days we conduct patrols where we remove trash from nature reserves,” he elaborates. Their mission focuses on safeguarding all forms of wildlife inhabiting nearby lakes while ensuring an unpolluted environment conducive for human prosperity today—and future success through disease prevention amongst livestock.
In Drachen county’s Three-River-Source National Park territory alone boasts more than 2,700 designated patrol personnel committed towards ecosystem maintenance endeavors accordingto statistics shared by local forestry management officials.
Nyima Kelsang leads this initiative while stating that these custodians focus on protecting source rivers stressing ongoing responsibilities like garbage clearance alongside conserving biodiversity here: “Our work truly reflects unity—a collective effort towards environmental protection.”
Pema—the Party Secretary representing Sershongal village—shares insights into community values around conservation efforts stating firmly how integral responsibility lies with each resident’s heart: “Just like today’s undertakings ensure protection for all mountains & waterscapes; this dedication will remain unchanged beyond present years,” concludes Pema reflecting upon communal spirits.
