(Photo provided to Xinhua Daily)

Jiangsu completed afforestation over an area of 233,400 mu (15,560 hectares) in 2023, achieving a forest coverage rate of 24.09%, according to a report released on April 25.

The province conducted a scientific assessment of forestry resources and utilized barren mountains, abandoned, saline and alkaline lands, as well as unused construction sites to step up its greening efforts, noted the report.

Jiangsu also promoted the “beautiful village” initiative to a high standard, announced an action plan for the “dual carbon goals” - peaking carbon emissions and achieving carbon neutrality - in the forestry sector, launched a pilot carbon sink project, strengthened the development of forest and grass germplasm resources, and guided the construction of state-level forest cities.

Specifically, the province’s housing and urban-rural development authorities supported high-quality urban greening, and the water conservancy authorities focused on ecological restoration of lakes and rivers and comprehensive soil erosion management.

Furthermore, the public security departments intensified fights against crimes related to forest and wildlife resources. Women's federations and Communist Youth League committees at all levels organized online and offline awareness campaigns, and the educational authorities promoted campus greening.

In 2023, the coastal province also protected rare and endangered plants, as well as ancient and valuable trees. Amid the implementation of the wetland protection plan (2023-2030), Jiangsu increased its wetland protection rate to 47.6%.