Episode 31 of Meet China journeys into four inspiring stories from the Chinese mainland, revealing how ecological strategy, farm-led jobs, café culture and heritage crafts shape a sustainable future.
From Barren to Blooming: Changting's Ecological Metamorphosis
Once plagued by severe soil erosion, Changting County in Longyan City, Fujian Province, has transformed into a green haven over the past decades. Through targeted tree planting, terraced farming and community-led reforestation projects, more than 60% of the land now supports diverse fruit orchards and forest cover. Local officials say this revival not only restored ecosystems but also sparked new eco-tourism ventures.
Family Farms as Rural Job Engines
In Jintang County, Chengdu City, Shuangyan Family Farm is leading a morel mushroom boom. By integrating tech-driven cultivation methods, transparent supply chains and direct-to-consumer sales, the farm created over 100 local jobs in the past three years. The reporter's hands-on experience highlights how family farms are becoming hubs for rural employment and entrepreneurial growth.
Café Innovation in Chengdu
Chengdu, already known for its vibrant tea culture, has seen a surge of independent cafés blending local flavors with global brewing techniques. From Sichuan-style coffee infused with jasmine to eco-friendly single-origin beans, these cafés draw young urbanites seeking fresh taste experiences. Owners credit continuous menu innovation and community events for their rapid growth.
Embroidered Heritage: The Shui People's Horsetail Stitch
In Sandu Shui Autonomous County, Guizhou Province, the intricate horsetail embroidery of the Shui people shines as a national intangible cultural heritage. Each piece takes weeks of meticulous stitching, preserving designs passed down for generations. By connecting artisans with online marketplaces and sustainable fashion brands, communities are turning cultural preservation into a thriving livelihood.
Together, these four stories in Episode 31 of Meet China illustrate how innovation, tradition and community efforts converge to pave diverse pathways toward modernization and sustainability across the Chinese mainland.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
