Qinghai to Set up Eco-protection Zone

The State Council endorsed the blueprint for an experimental zone for comprehensive ecological protection in the source area of China's three major rivers – the Yangtze, the Yellow and the Lancang, in Qinghai Province. The three rivers' source area is a major supplier of fresh water to China's population and serve as an ecological security barrier to the Qinghai-Tibet Plateau. The proposed ecological protection zone will cover 21 counties in four Tibetan autonomous prefectures and Tanggula Town in Golmud. According to the blueprint, vegetation coverage in the area will be increased by 25 to 30 percent by 2020 and the income of local residents in the zone will have reached the average level for the province. The grasslands will be better managed and eco-friendly industries will be developed. Social security for local herders and farmers will also be improved. The central government will give more financial support to the area and encourage individuals and private organizations to participate in eco-protection projects.