When Maroof Ali, a dedicated botanical researcher from Pakistan, set foot in southwest Chinas Xishuangbanna Dai Autonomous Prefecture, he discovered more than just lush forestshe discovered a shared mission with Chinese scientists at Xishuangbanna Tropical Botanical Garden (XTBG). 🌱
The region is a biodiversity hotspot—a fancy way of saying its home to an incredible variety of plants and animals. From towering tropical trees to rare orchids, every leaf and petal plays a part in keeping our planet healthy.
At XTBG, Maroof and his team are:
- 🌿 Mapping native plant species to understand where they thrive
- 🔬 Using DNA tools to track how species adapt to climate change
- 🌍 Sharing knowledge through workshops for local students and researchers
Why it matters? Biodiversity isnt just about pretty flowers and exotic birdsits the backbone of our food, medicine, and clean air. Protecting it means securing a brighter future for communities in South Asia, Southeast Asia, and beyond. 🌏
Looking ahead, Maroof hopes this collaboration sparks more cross-border teamwork. After all, nature doesnt follow political bordersneither does the drive to protect our planet.
Stay tuned for updates on their journey as they unlock the secrets of Xishuangbannas green treasures! ✨
Reference(s):
Pakistani researcher joins hands with China to protect biodiversity
cgtn.com
