Audi China starts ancient tree-protecting initiative

German carmaker Audi launched an initiative on Tuesday in Beijing to preserve ancient trees in cities.

The effort is part of the Audi China Biodiversity City Initiative started in 2023. Last year, it focused on promoting bird diversity in the capital city's parks.

Audi China President Johannes Roscheck said the initiative shows the company's enduring dedication to conserving biodiversity, fulfilling its commitment to China, and contributing its efforts to building a "Beautiful China".

In this year's effort, the carmaker, in partnership with the Beijing Afforestation Foundation, focuses on the preservation of ancient trees in cities.

The two also advocate public engagement in the protection of ancient trees and biodiversity and encourage public participation in green urban lifestyles.

With its vast biodiversity, China boasts over 5 million registered ancient and famous trees and has been promoting their protection and appreciation.

Audi also plans to release a guidebook with the Beijing Afforestation Foundation, which will offer detailed routes for exploring ancient trees in Beijing, aiming to involve more urban residents in urban biodiversity protection.

Yang Shutian, chairman of the foundation, said as China's urbanization speeds up, the organic integration between the conservation of ancient and famous trees with urban development becomes increasingly important.

"To achieve this, we need more citizens to understand and actively participate in protecting ancient trees," said Yang.

Audi has made ESG a cornerstone of its corporate decision-making, committed to supporting the Targeting Paris 2050 and contributing to global sustainable development through practical actions.