April 22, 2024 is the 55th World Earth Day, and the theme of this year's Earth Day is "Planet vs. Plastics". In order to thoroughly study and implement the spirit of the 20th National Congress of the Communist Party of China, publicize Xi Jinping Thought on Ecological Civilization, guide the whole society to establish the concept of ecological civilization of "respecting nature, conforming to nature, and protecting nature", promote the construction of beautiful Qianshan, and jointly build an earth home where man and nature coexist in harmony, Tianzhushan Global Geopark, Anqing Qianshan Ecological Environment Branch and Qianshan Pailou Central Primary School jointly carried out the 55th "World Earth Day" and the 5th Asia-Pacific Geopark Week Science Popularization Campaign. In the form of museum-school cooperation and joint construction and common benefit, Tianzhushan Geopark will give full play to the social education function of the museum and jointly build a "second classroom" for popular science education.
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In celebration of China's National Ecology Day, Tianzhushan UNESCO Global Geopark partnered with the Qianshan Ecological Environment Bureau of Anqing City to organize a family-oriented eco-science activity titled "Guardians of Mountain-Water Legacy, Builders of Ecological Future." Eleven families participated in the event.
The program immersed participants in geological history and conservation efforts. At the Yangxiaowu and Xudawu fossil sites, Mr. Cheng Xiaoqing, a geologist delivered engaging presentations on the scientific value of representative fossils found in the Qianshan Basin. He highlighted the site's global significance for paleontological research, particularly its crucial role in understanding the origins and evolution of mammals. Children enthusiastically explored the rock layers under guidance, identifying fossil traces firsthand.
Following the educational sessions, the families engaged in practical conservation work. Led by professionals, they cleaned up environmental litter within designated safe areas and helped maintain educational boards and signage, actively contributing to the preservation of these precious geological heritage sites.
The learning continued at the Qianshui River Wetland Education Center. Using models and exhibits, volunteers introduced families to unique wetland species and explained the vital ecological functions of wetlands, emphasizing their importance within the Yangtze River Protection Strategy. Observing specimens of local wildlife and plants, children gained a tangible understanding of the profound concept that "lucid waters and lush mountains are invaluable assets."
The event culminated in the recognition of 15 young participants as "Eco-guardian Ambassadors," who received honorary certificates and cultural-themed prizes to encourage their continued involvement in environmental protection. Eagerly sharing their experiences on stage, the children expressed their newfound appreciation and commitment to safeguarding nature.
This initiative successfully blended scientific education with hands-on conservation practice, deeply impressing participants with the critical importance of protecting geological heritage and wetland ecosystems. Moving forward, Tianzhushan UNESCO Global Geopark plans to diversify its science communication formats and enrich content, aiming to bring geological knowledge and ecological awareness into households nationwide. Through the power of popular science, the geopark seeks to illuminate public understanding of nature, helping to preserve China's treasured landscapes and jointly build a brighter ecological future.
