Baotou has achieved significant environmental milestones this year, earning a "Cities with Nature" recognition at the 16th Conference of the Parties to the UN Convention on Biological Diversity alongside Paris and other global cities. The city's Nanhai Wetland now hosts over 24,000 migratory birds, including endangered species like the Baer's Pochard and Black-necked Crane, showcasing its thriving biodiversity.

Red-billed gulls rest and play in the Nanhai Wetland. [Photo: Li Chunyan/For chinadaily.com.cn]

All 37 coal-fired power units in Baotou's 15 thermal power plants now meet ultra-low emission standards, with leading aluminum producers completing upgrades ahead of national requirements. The city also achieved an 81.7 percent annual air quality excellence rate while reducing energy consumption, carbon dioxide emissions, and pollutants per GDP unit.

The autumn scenery of the Olympic Park in Baotou. [Photo: Li Qiang/For chinadaily.com.cn]

Baotou invested 500 million yuan ($68.5 million) in 10 air pollution control projects, with Baogang Group passing national ultra-low emission audits and four enterprises earning A-level environmental performance ratings. Water quality improvements included fluoride reduction projects for key silicon enterprises and the restoration of major water bodies. Additionally, 408 river discharge points were inspected and rectified, and 79 villages completed sewage treatment projects, raising rural wastewater treatment to 77.9 percent, far exceeding the regional target of 32 percent.

As part of the Zero-waste City initiative, Baotou achieved a 56 percent utilization rate for industrial solid waste, surpassing regional averages. Green finance initiatives supported 4.1 billion yuan in low-interest loans, reducing carbon emissions by 1.87 million metric tons and further solidifying Baotou's role as a leader in sustainable urban development.