The Yellow River, stretching thousands of miles into the Bohai Sea, is more than a nautral landmark — it's a symbol of sustainable development.

In its lower reaches, Dongying, East China's Shandong province, is pioneering ecological restoration and green transformation along this historic river.

Facing ecological strain from a Spartina alterniflora invasion and unstable freshwater replenishment, Dongying decided to launch a comprehensive wetland restoration program. By upgrading the Yellow River diversion gates, the city reduced water replenishment time from nine to four days and established a connectivity system that integrates the Yellow River, wetland, tidal flat and the sea.

Today, the Yellow River Delta National Nature Reserve boasts 55.1 percent natural vegetation coverage and serves as a key habitat for millions of migratory birds, which is also known as an "international airport for birds".

The wetland of the Yellow River Delta National Nature Reserve is a key example of successful ecological restoration and biodiversity conservation. [Photo/WeChat account: hhkbhq]

Dongying is also a leader in green energy innovation. The Guohua HG14 Offshore Photovoltaic Project in Kenli district, operated by China Energy Group, will set up vast amounts of solar panels across the waters of the Bohai Sea. Once fully operational, it will generate 1.78 billion kWh of clean power annually, meeting the needs of 2.67 million urban residents.

Photovoltaic panels are arranged in rows to generate green energy by making full use of the region's favorable geographic conditions. [Photo/WeChat account: hhkbhq]

As Shandong promotes the parks featuring the Yellow River culture, and global storytelling through documentaries such as Life at the Yellow River Delta, Dongying stands at the forefront of connecting ecology, culture, and innovation, transforming the ancient story of the Yellow River into a model of harmony between humanity and nature.

An international photographer captures a Shandong craftswoman at work. [Photo/WeChat account: hhkbhq]

Bilingual posters for the Dongying-produced documentary Life at the Yellow River Delta highlight the achievements of the city's protection efforts. [Photo/WeChat account: hhkbhq]