Two Baer's pochards are spotted on Jian Gong Lake in Haimen district, Nantong, Jiangsu province. [Photo/ntjoy.com] 

Haimen district in Nantong, Jiangsu province has in recent years made remarkable progress in environmental protection.

The average concentration of PM2.5 has decreased to 27.3 micrograms per cubic meter, and the proportion of excellent air quality days has reached 82.2 percent. Additionally, the proportion of Class III water quality in sections above the municipal level and the safe utilization rate of key construction land have both achieved 100 percent for three consecutive years.

The achievements can be attributed to the implementation of a series of proactive measures rolled out by authorities, including channeling more resources into ecological protection along the Yangtze River and building coastal ecological landscape belts.

Notably, the Dongbuzhou Long Beach Park and the Qinglong Port scenic area have emerged as popular tourist destinations, attracting attention with sightings of rare bird species such as Baer's Pochard (Aythya baeri), yellow-billed egrets, and dolphins.

Furthermore, authorities have intensified their efforts to guide enterprises towards green development, resulting in two facilities being recognized as national green factories.

This concerted effort demonstrates Haimen's commitment to environmental preservation and sustainable development, and marks a significant step forward in the district's environmental initiatives.