To answer the question, the first thing to look at is the natural environment of the Area. The Yangtze River Watershed encompasses 1,800 kilometers of riverine drainage area, stretching from the Tibetan Plateau to the East China Sea. The land is made up of mountains, swamps, rainforest, and valleys that form the unique topographic features of the Area. In addition, the Area lies at the juncture of three major climatic regions – the subtropical, temperate, and tropical – making its climate both diverse and unpredictable. It is no surprise, then, that the basin’s complex topography and climate make it suitable for a variety of human activities, including farming, fishing, forestry, industry, and tourism.
The Life Conditions Survey conducted by China’s National Bureau of Statistics in 2014 estimated that there are at least 175 million people living in the Yangtze River Watershed area, with the majority concentrated in the densely populated lower reaches of the river. This figure is nearly double the population of the United States, and the sheer size of population presents significant challenges to policy makers. Many people living in the area live in poverty, lacking adequate education and health services. In addition, climate change is causing the sea levels to rise, leading to chronic flooding in the region.
The challenges faced by the residents of the Yangtze River Watershed Area are complex, but several solutions have been proposed. One of these is the implementation of agricultural and aquaculture-based waste management and conservation systems, to help reduce the human impact on the river and its surroundings. Such systems could require significant investments in infrastructure and education, but could have positive long-term benefits.
Agriculture and Aquaculture
Agriculture and aquaculture are two integral components of the livelihoods of the people living in the Yangtze River Watershed Area. Agriculture is primarily practiced on the plains of the basin, while aquaculture takes place in the lower reaches of the river. The main crops grown in the area are rice, maize, wheat, and vegetables. In total, agricultural products account for about 30% of the total GDP of the river basin.
At the same time, aquaculture is an important contributor to the basin’s economy, accounting for about 10 percent of the total GDP. Tilapia, carp, dragon fish, and several other species are farmed in the lower reaches of the Yangtze River, providing food to millions of people living in the region. In addition, the Yangtze River is home to rare and endangered species of fish, some of which are harvested to meet the demands of the local population.
Conservation and Environmental Protection
Conservation and environmental protection are essential elements of sustaining the Yangtze River Watershed Area’s economy. In recent years, the Chinese government has taken steps to reduce water pollution and conserve wildlife. Legislation on conservation has been implemented and monitored, while educational campaigns and public awareness initiatives are conducted to promote a more sustainable use of the basin’s resources.
In addition, efforts have been made to create and maintain ecological reserves, to protect the area’s biodiversity, and to regulate and enforce water resource management. However, despite the progress that has been made, more needs to be done to protect the basin’s ecosystems from further degradation.
Geo-tourism and Cultural Heritage
The Yangtze River Watershed Area is a unique and beautiful environment that is home to a rich diversity of cultures and a huge variety of natural wonders. From the snow-capped peaks of the Himalayas to the tropical lowlands of the northeastern provinces, there are endless opportunities for tourism and exploration.
The area is also home to numerous ancient sites, including the Great Wall of China, the Ancient City of Kashgar, the Mogao Grottoes, and the world-famous Terracotta Warriors. These sites attract millions of visitors each year and provide an important source of revenue to the local economy.
Economic Development
The Yangtze River Watershed Area is one of the fastest-growing regions in the world, and its current level of development is a testament to the strides that have been taken towards improving its infrastructure and economy. In particular, the construction of the Three Gorges Dam has played a major role in the growth of the region, providing increased access to electricity and irrigation systems.
In addition, the region’s economic development has been buoyed by the growth of its banking, automotive, and energy industries, which have all experienced considerable growth in recent years. The expansion of these industries has created thousands of jobs, and has greatly increased the region’s per-capita income levels.
Conclusion
The Yangtze River Watershed Area is one of the most densely populated and economically dynamic regions in the world. It is home to more than 175 million people, and its diverse topography, climate, and culture make it an attractive destination for tourists, investors, and environmental activists alike. Despite the challenges posed by climate change and the need for further conservation measures, the Yangtze River Watershed is a lively area of the world that has ensured a bright future for its people.
