THE 5TH WORLD CONGRESS OF BIOSPHERE RESERVES

Zhouzhi Biosphere Reserve
Editor: ZHANG Nannan | Sep 30, 2026
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Located in Shaanxi Province, Zhouzhi Biosphere Reserve was designated by UNESCO in 2025. Covering an area roughly 20 times the size of Macao, the reserve spans both the northern and southern slopes of the Qinling Mountains and is home to diverse forest ecosystems.

Situated along the main ridge of the Qinling Mountains, the reserve lies at the transition between the warm-temperate and northern subtropical zones. Its unique geography and climate support diverse forest ecosystems and preserve a relatively complete vertical vegetation profile.

From the foothills to the peaks, diverse elevations and continuous forests create rich mountain habitats—the home of the "Four Treasures of the Qinling Mountains": giant pandas, golden snub-nosed monkeys, Qinling takins and crested ibises. The reserve is also a core habitat for giant pandas and the northernmost range of golden snub-nosed monkeys in the Qinling Mountains, providing vital space for wildlife to move and thrive.

This rich natural diversity also provides a unique foundation for green development in Zhouzhi. The area is a global hotspot for wild kiwifruit genetic diversity, with a cultivation history of around 1,600 years and more than 120 varieties preserved. Today, it is one of the world's major kiwifruit production bases.

Zhouzhi is rich not only in natural resources but also in cultural heritage. As one of the important birthplaces of Taoist culture, it embodies ancient ideas such as "following the way of nature" and "harmony between humanity and nature"—a wisdom of respecting nature and living in harmony with it.

Looking ahead, this green treasure of the northern Qinling Mountains will continue to seek a balance between conservation and development—protecting vital habitats for wildlife while turning ecological resources into lasting drivers of green development.

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