This year marks the 20th anniversary of the national development concept that "lucid waters and lush mountains are invaluable assets", which took root in East China's Zhejiang province and has fostered numerous green miracles across the country.

Quzhou, located at the source of the Qiantang River, serves as a vital ecological barrier in Zhejiang. Committed to the green development concept, Quzhou has balanced ecological protection with industrial transformation over the past two decades, achieving high-quality development.

Over 20 years, Quzhou has achieved a forest coverage rate of 71.5 percent, consistently excellent water and air quality, and a thriving green industry.

The city has developed six key industrial value chains, including new materials and renewable energy.

An impressive view of a repurposed quarry park in Changshan county, Quzhou, Zhejiang province. [Photo/Tide News]

Quzhou's commitment to ecological improvement is evident in its repeated recognition with the Zhejiang's Dayu Ding Golden Award for excellence in water management.

The city has transformed its approach, shifting from logging to conservation, as exemplified by the expansion of the Gutian Mountain National Nature Reserve and the transition of former loggers into forest rangers.

Quzhou's industrial transformation includes the closure of polluting enterprises and the development of eco-tourism, with initiatives like the Quzhou Youli scenic route enhancing local economic growth.

Innovative mechanisms like ecological accounts are facilitating the value transformation of ecological resources. These efforts, supported by financial products, have unlocked significant investments, paving the way for a sustainable future.