WWF says a new wetland conservation network has been established along the central and lower Yangtze River, providing a platform for management organizations, research institutions, social groups and the public to protect wetlands and battle climate change.

Supported by the WWF-HSBC Partnership Programme, the network of 20 wetland conservation areas is the first of its kind in China

"With this new initiative, the overall protected area will see a remarkable increase if the separated wetlands are networked together," said Li Lin, Head of Conservation Strategies at WWF China. "This will significantly boost conservation effectiveness."

The 20 wetland sites, covering an area of some one million hectares, represent a diverse range of habitats and are home to numerous species. The wetlands, however, are threatened by ecological degradation and water pollution as a result of economic development and urbanization.

WWF has reportedly signed a memorandum of understanding with the Wetlands Conservation Network, offering training to monitor waterfowl and climate data, as well as to work together on policy advocacy and awareness-raising campaigns.