Abstract:

Background: Ecosystem restoration is a key strategy for achieving ecological civilization and sustainability. Using the Yangtze River Basin as a representative case, this review synthesizes the evolution of China’s ecosystem restoration achievements and challenges over the past five decades. 

Results: We identify three major phases: Ecological problem prevention and control, ecosystem function-oriented restoration, and the current shift toward system-level restoration emphasizing native ecosystems and biodiversity. While China has made significant progress in halting degradation and recovering flagship species, current practices face four major challenges: An overemphasis on functional goals, limited integration of multiple objectives, a mismatch between natural geography and restoration strategies, and a lack of robust scientific assessment and monitoring systems. 

Perspectives: In response, we propose a comprehensive restoration framework centered on biodiversity recovery and ecological integrity reconstruction. It includes a preparation phase involving the identification of restoration stress factors and the differentiation of restoration goals; an implementation phase comprising the formulation and evaluation of ecological restoration strategies based on scientific monitoring, the maintenance of a multi-stakeholder collaboration mechanism, and diversified funding support; as well as a dynamic adjustment mechanism integrating climate adaptation strategies and the implementation of adaptive management. This review provides scientific and policy insights to support the Yangtze River Protection Strategy and contribute to restoration efforts in China.

Key words: ecosystem restoration, Yangtze River basin, biodiversity, ecological integrity, restoration framework