Qingdao has taken a big step in preserving its ecological treasures with the enactment of regulations for the protection and management of Fushan Forest Park and Taipingshan Central Park on Oct 23.

The legislation aims to provide strong legal safeguards for the sustainable development of these crucial green spaces.

The regulations establish three key control measures to protect the parks' ecological integrity: defining the parks' green boundaries, setting a 10-meter construction setback from these boundaries, and implementing building height controls. Strict limitations are placed on new construction, allowing only essential infrastructure, ecological protection facilities, and basic park amenities as per national design standards. Major construction projects near the parks must undergo review by the city's territorial space planning committee.

Emphasizing ecological priority, the regulations mandate the implementation of a forest chief system in Fushan Forest Park and authorize seasonal forest closures for protection. They include detailed provisions for reforestation, landscape management, and the protection of ancient and valuable trees. The rules explicitly prohibit filling or polluting water bodies and ban commercial water extraction.

The legislation also highlights public participation, requiring mechanisms for getting public feedback and encouraging residents to participate in park management as volunteer directors or supervisors. It calls for improved visitor facilities, including rest areas, fitness equipment, and smart park services like digital guides and parking systems, ensuring these green spaces continue serving citizens' recreational and cultural needs while being protected for future generations.

Qingdao offers magnificent views of red tiles, green trees, blue seas and azure skies. [Photo provided to chinadaily.com.cn]