A pool of green lake water and a vast plantation of lush trees form a picturesque scene and an eco-friendly environment for tourists in Zhangjiagang, East China's Jiangsu province. [Photo/Official WeChat account: zjgsrmzf]

In 2019, the local government launched an ecological improvement project costing 3.76 billion yuan ($541.82 million) to protect its environment and restore the Yangtze River ecosystem.

Focused on strengthening management of the city's water sources, improving the quality of black and smelly water bodies, and promoting renovation of the Yangtze River and its tributaries, Zhangjiagang has renovated more than 200 polluted water bodies, put an end to 151 illegal wharves, and removed more than 600,000 square kilometers of water area due to unauthorized use and construction.

With the improved ecology and environment, more and more endangered birds are spotted in Zhangjiagang, attracting crowds of birdwatchers, photographers and ordinary people to visit the city.