NETDA makes strides on environmental improvement efforts

Residents of the Nantong Economic and Technological Development Area (NETDA) recently found freshwater jellyfish in lakes in the area.

Their identity was confirmed later by the local environment department.

Known as the “giant panda of the water,” the jellyfish can survive only in places with a superior natural environment and excellent water quality.

The discovery of the jellyfish proves that the environment in the area is getting better.

The area's concentration of PM2.5, particulate matter with a diameter of 2.5 micrometers or less, fell to 34.2 micrograms per cubic meter, down 6.8 percent year-on-year, according to statistics.

NETDA has made great efforts to improve its environmental quality and fight against pollution in recent years.

Many famous overseas companies have chosen to start their business in the area. In 2017, Nantong Qiubi Food Co Ltd began operations there. The food company has very demanding environmental requirements.

In addition, German pharmaceutical company Merck Group has invested over 1.5 billion yuan ($232 million) to establish a pharmaceutical base in the area.

This base is Merck's second biggest pharmaceutical production center in the world, with its sales revenue expected to reach more than 6 billion yuan.

NETDA has realized that several high-quality projects have been attracted to the area due to the continuous improvement of the local environment, said an official from the environmental protection department.

NETDA will strengthen investigations and punishments for actions violating environmental protection laws and regulations.