West Lake's heritage protection shines on global stage

Hangzhou's model for protecting and managing the West Lake cultural landscape was recently recognized by UNESCO as an outstanding case in environmental protection, local media outlets reported.

The recognition was announced at the 7th Annual Meeting of HeritAP on World Heritage Contribution to Sustainable Development Goals in Hangzhou on Nov 27-28. HeritAP, or Heritage Asia-Pacific, is a network of heritage practitioners supported by the Shanghai Center of the World Heritage Institute of Training and Research for the Asia and the Pacific Region under the auspices of UNESCO.

West Lake's innovative practices include eco-friendly dredging that revitalizes ecosystems, water management projects linking the lake to the Qiantang River and the Grand Canal, and a "lake for the people" approach, ensuring public access and community benefits. With no gates or tickets, West Lake welcomes over 20 million visitors annually and boasts a vibrant volunteer network.

Experts from 140 countries and regions praised Hangzhou's success in balancing cultural preservation with sustainable development, highlighting it as a model for global heritage sites.