In an unprecedented transformation, **China announced its goal of creating 49 national parks by 2035**, a system that would cover more than **110 million hectares** and exceed the current network of parks in the United States in size.
Although its first park was inaugurated only in 2021, the Asian country already manages **five key national reserves**, which combine **environmental conservation, local development, and [ecotourism](https://noticiasambientales.com/turismo/el-ecoturismo-crece-en-tandil-e-invita-a-pasar-unos-dias-sumergidos-en-medio-de-una-naturaleza-que-sana/)**.
With this commitment, China seeks to position itself as a **global leader in biodiversity protection and ecosystem restoration**, following international standards promoted by the **International Union for Conservation of Nature [IUCN](https://iucn.org/es)**.
Five emblematic parks already in operation
**1) Giant Panda National Park**
- Location: Sichuan, Shaanxi, and Gansu
- Area: 2.67 million hectares
- Attractions: Observation centers, volunteer programs, habitat for 70% of the world’s giant panda population.
**2) Northeast Tiger and Leopard National Park**
- Location: Bordering Russia and North Korea
- Area: 1.42 million hectares
- Active conservation: Removal of fences, ecological corridors, monitoring with trap cameras to protect the Siberian tiger and the Amur leopard.
**3) Sanjiangyuan National Park**
- Nicknamed: “China’s water tower”
- Area: 19 million hectares
- Ecosystems: Source of the Yangtze, Mekong, and Yellow rivers, refuge of the snow leopard and the Tibetan antelope.
**4) Hainan Tropical Rainforest National Park**
- Area: 404,000 hectares
- Iconic species: Hainan gibbon, considered the most endangered primate on the planet.
- Activities: Hiking, rafting, observation of island flora and fauna.
**5) Wuyi Mountains National Park**
- Area: 128,000 hectares
- Heritage: Danxia rock formations, archaeological sites, and traditional tea fields.
- Distinction: UNESCO dual site for its natural and cultural value.
A conservation model with global ambition
The Chinese park system is based on innovative pillars:
- Core areas without human intervention.
- Strict regulation of ecotourism.
- Active habitat restoration.
- Ongoing scientific monitoring.
- Integration of nature and traditional culture.
In just four years, this approach has already reported **population increases in 200 rare animal species** and the recovery of around 100 [endangered plant species](https://noticiasambientales.com/medio-ambiente/trump-quiere-revertir-la-proteccion-de-especies-para-avanzar-en-la-explotacion-del-petroleo/).
Social impact: sustainability and rural roots
Beyond its ecological dimension, the system:
- Protects villages, historical routes, and ancient temples.
- Generates green jobs and alternatives to rural exodus.
- Promotes environmental education in local communities.
- Fosters the development of ecotourism as an economic driver.
An environmental megaproject of the 21st century
The **speed, scale, and integrative approach** of the Chinese national park system place it as one of the most ambitious projects of the century in environmental matters.
If it remains true to its principles of **preservation, community inclusion, and sustainable management**, it could become an **international model for balancing human development with planet protection**.
