In Episode 39 of Meet China, we celebrate cross-border connections that bring people and the planet closer together. From majestic wildlife in the Chinese mainland to solar-powered deserts, UNESCO heritage preservation in Cambodia, and a bustling café on the China–Vietnam border, these stories show how innovation and cultural exchange shape our world.
Capturing Conservation: Xi Zhinong’s Wildlife Portraits
For over 40 years, wildlife photographer Xi Zhinong has roamed the Chinese wilderness, translating the silent language of animals into riveting images. From golden snub-nosed monkeys in Sichuan to elusive snow leopards on the Tibetan Plateau, his lens tracks species once on the brink. His work not only showcases raw beauty but also fuels public support for habitat protection across the Chinese mainland.
Turning Sand to Solar: Greening the Kubuqi Desert
Once infamous for sandstorms that choked ecosystems across the Yellow River Basin, the Kubuqi Desert in Inner Mongolia has undergone a remarkable metamorphosis. Adopting a PV + desert control strategy, pioneers now blanket dunes with solar panels, converting sunlight into clean energy while stabilizing the soil beneath. Today, this solar blue ocean spans thousands of acres, demonstrating how renewable tech and ecological restoration can go hand in hand.
Reviving History: Angkor Wat’s Restoration Journey
Angkor Wat, the crown jewel of Cambodia’s heritage, faced severe threats from extreme heat and decay by the early 1990s. After its 1992 listing as endangered by UNESCO, China joined restoration efforts in 1998. Over six years, experts meticulously revived two key temples, leading to the site’s delisting in 2004. This collaboration not only preserved stone walls but also reignited the ancient martial art of Bokator, freshly carved into history.
A Taste of Two Worlds: From Dongxing to Vietnam in a Cup
In Dongxing, Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, graduate-turned-entrepreneur Lu Shaoyuan blended cultures by opening a café dedicated to Vietnamese coffee. Tourists flock for a signature treat: creamy egg coffee crafted with local beans and a dash of cross-border flair—one cup at a time.
Episode 39 of Meet China invites young global citizens, business innovators, thought leaders, sports fans, and digital nomads to explore how these cross-border narratives shape our shared future. Stay curious, stay connected.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
