Last Saturday (December 20, 2025), the World Record Certification Agency (WRCA) officially certified the Lhalu Wetland National Nature Reserve in Lhasa as the world's highest-altitude natural urban wetland.
Located within the urban area of Lhasa, in the Xizang Autonomous Region of the Chinese mainland, Lhalu spans 12.2 square kilometers at an average elevation of 3,649 meters above sea level. This recognition highlights the unique convergence of urban life and high-altitude ecosystems.
Urban wetlands like Lhalu play a vital role in climate resilience. They act as natural buffers against flooding, support diverse plant and animal species adapted to high elevations, and help filter pollutants, improving air and water quality for city residents.
For young travelers and digital nomads, Lhasa now offers more than spiritual and cultural heritage. The certified wetland invites global explorers to experience its pristine waters, spot migratory birds, and learn about traditional conservation practices that have shaped the region for centuries.
Business and tech innovators can also draw inspiration from Lhalu's model. Integrating green spaces into urban planning is emerging as a smart solution to rising temperatures and extreme weather events—an approach gaining traction in major cities across G20 nations.
Thought leaders and changemakers are applauding this milestone. They see Lhalu's recognition as a reminder that sustainable development can and must go hand in hand with urban growth, creating healthier environments and stronger communities.
As cities worldwide seek blueprints for balancing progress and preservation, Lhasa's Lhalu Wetland stands tall—literally—offering a living laboratory at 3,649 meters above sea level.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
