High above sea level on the Qinghai-Xizang Plateau lies a natural marvel: the Lalu Wetland. Nicknamed the "Lungs of Lhasa," this alpine oasis sits at over 3,600 meters and spans more than 300 hectares, making it the highest-altitude and largest urban wetland in the Chinese mainland.
Researchers from leading Chinese universities are combining remote-sensing drones, acoustic sensors and DNA barcoding to map the wetland’s hidden processes. By tracking thousands of data points, they’ve identified zones where rare alpine mosses store carbon at rates 25% higher than their temperate counterparts.
Wetlands act as natural filters, but at extreme altitudes, high UV levels and harsh winters put extra pressure on these ecosystems. The team’s latest report shows a 15% boost in water purification capacity over the past decade, thanks to restored vegetation and community-led conservation projects in Lhasa.
Beyond data, the project highlights local voices. Tibetan farmers and urban volunteers have helped install floating sensors, turning citizens into active stewards. Their efforts are a powerful reminder: protecting fragile environments means blending high-tech tools with grassroots passion.
As climate challenges intensify, the Lalu Wetland story offers hope. It demonstrates how cutting-edge science and community engagement can safeguard vital ecosystems—and why our planet’s highest urban wetland matters to a global audience of young activists, tech-minded entrepreneurs and adventure seekers alike.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
