Reviving Lakes and Wetlands: Lessons Learned from the People's Republic of China ; Water for All

Abstract

Lakes and wetlands in the People's Republic of China face serious threats, yet the restoration programs designed to save them have achieved little success over the last 20 years. Today, more than ever, these resources need to be better managed and protected. The experience of three lake restoration programs highlights the need for an integrated strategy that takes on the complex challenges of rehabilitating water and land resources, while strengthening the links among stakeholders. The key elements for success are strong and consistent political leadership, integrated planning and analysis, and effective management structures and financial engineering.