Core Concept - The article highlights the transformation of the Sanjiangyuan region, emphasizing the successful ecological restoration efforts over the past two decades, which have led to the revival of water sources, wildlife, and vegetation in the area, known as the "Chinese Water Tower" [1][3][39]. Group 1: Historical Context - The concept of "Green Mountains and Clear Water are as Valuable as Mountains of Gold and Silver" was introduced by Xi Jinping 20 years ago, becoming a core principle of ecological civilization in China [1]. - The Sanjiangyuan region is the source of three major rivers in China, providing nearly 1 trillion cubic meters of quality water annually, crucial for ecological security in China and Asia [3]. Group 2: Ecological Challenges - Over the past few decades, the region faced severe ecological degradation due to climate change, rodent infestations, and overgrazing, leading to a significant reduction in lake numbers from over 4,000 to around 1,800 [14][37]. - The area experienced a phenomenon known as "black soil beach," indicating severe ecological deterioration, where grassland was replaced by barren land [23][18]. Group 3: Restoration Efforts - Since 2005, a series of ecological restoration initiatives have been implemented, including desertification control, grassland restoration, and rodent population management [21][25]. - The establishment of the Sanjiangyuan National Park in 2016 marked the beginning of integrated management of mountains, water, forests, fields, lakes, grasslands, and deserts, leading to significant ecological improvements [33]. Group 4: Results of Restoration - The vegetation coverage in the black soil beach areas has increased from less than 20% to over 80%, and the number of lakes in the region has risen to 5,849 [37]. - The average annual increase in water source conservation in the Sanjiangyuan area has exceeded 6% over the past decade, with significant reductions in desertification and land degradation [37]. Group 5: Wildlife Recovery - The restoration efforts have led to a resurgence of wildlife, with the population of Tibetan antelopes increasing from less than 20,000 to over 70,000, marking a nearly fourfold growth since conservation efforts began [41]. - The region now features a comprehensive monitoring network and designated protected areas for wildlife, ensuring their safety and promoting biodiversity [41][39].

Group 1 - The core idea of the article revolves around the 20th anniversary of the "Two Mountains Theory," proposed by Xi Jinping, emphasizing the importance of ecological civilization in China's sustainable development [1] - The "Two Mountains Theory" has become a central concept in Xi Jinping's ecological civilization thought, leading to significant ecological transformations across China [1] Group 2 - The Sanjiangyuan region, known as the "Water Tower of China," is crucial for the water supply of major rivers, providing nearly 1,000 billion cubic meters of quality water annually [5] - The Sanjiangyuan National Park, with an average altitude of over 4,000 meters, features numerous lakes and wetlands, contributing to the region's ecological diversity [7] Group 3 - Over the past 20 years, the Sanjiangyuan area has undergone significant ecological restoration, with efforts to combat desertification, restore grasslands, and eliminate rodent infestations [15][17] - The area has seen a remarkable recovery, with vegetation coverage increasing from less than 20% to over 80%, and the number of lakes in the region rising from 1,800 to 5,849 [30] Group 4 - The restoration efforts have led to a resurgence of wildlife, including the population of Tibetan antelopes increasing from under 20,000 to over 70,000 [36] - The establishment of a comprehensive monitoring network and designated protected areas has facilitated the safe habitation of wildlife in the Sanjiangyuan region [36] Group 5 - The article highlights the transformation of the Sanjiangyuan region from a crisis of river source depletion to a flourishing ecosystem, showcasing the power of ecological protection and sustainable development [45]