In Chun’an County of east China’s Zhejiang Province, workers are battling the summer heat to plant water spinach on floating islands in Qiandao Lake. This innovative approach not only helps purify the lake’s water but also boosts local biodiversity.
The floating farms cover a total of 110 mu (7.3 hectares) and are strategically placed in key areas like reservoir bays, river inlets, and sewage treatment plant outlets. By using water-purifying plants such as water celery and water spinach combined with carbon fiber biofilms, the system improves nitrogen and phosphorus removal efficiency by up to 30 percent. This is achieved through plant absorption, microbial breakdown, and sedimentation.
But it’s not just about cleaning the water. These floating platforms are creating new habitats for birds and fish, increasing local biodiversity by 20 percent. They form a self-sustaining ecosystem that balances underwater forests, aquatic animals, and microorganisms.
This ecological initiative by Chun’an County showcases a creative way to tackle environmental issues while enhancing the natural ecosystem. It’s a shining example of how innovative thinking can lead to sustainable solutions that benefit both nature and the community.
