Core Viewpoint - The article emphasizes the ecological protection and high-quality development of the Yellow River, highlighting the significant improvements in water quality and sediment reduction over the years, as well as the collaborative efforts across various regions to restore and protect this vital waterway [1][7][54]. Group 1: Ecological Improvements - The sediment concentration in the Yellow River has decreased from an average of 27.5 kg per cubic meter (1952-2020) to 5.76 kg by 2024 [5]. - The Yellow River has achieved continuous flow for 26 years and has maintained a stable water quality of Class II for three consecutive years, with over 90% of the river basin classified as good water quality [7][8]. - The upstream regions have implemented measures to reduce sediment input, including the construction of over 50,000 sediment retention dams that have collectively trapped 7.4 billion tons of sediment [25]. Group 2: Regional Strategies - In the upstream areas, ecological protection and water source conservation are prioritized, while the middle reaches focus on soil and water conservation to enhance water quality [14][26]. - The middle reaches, particularly the Fen River, have seen significant improvements in water quality due to enhanced industrial wastewater treatment and strict pollution controls [30][35]. - The downstream regions have transformed previously degraded riverbanks into productive agricultural areas, showcasing successful ecological restoration efforts [42]. Group 3: Legislative and Collaborative Efforts - The implementation of the "Yellow River Protection Law" has established a unified water and sediment management system, reversing the historical trend of frequent river flow interruptions [54]. - Major ecological projects, such as the "Three North" program and the establishment of national parks, are being actively pursued to ensure comprehensive protection of the Yellow River [50][52]. - The collaborative approach across provinces and regions has shifted from isolated efforts to a unified strategy for the protection of the Yellow River [58].

Core Viewpoint - The article highlights the significant ecological transformation and protection efforts along the Yellow River, emphasizing the coordinated management of water resources and sediment control across its upper, middle, and lower reaches [1][22]. Group 1: Ecological Protection and Management - Since the 18th National Congress, the Chinese government has prioritized ecological protection and high-quality development of the Yellow River basin, with President Xi Jinping leading discussions across the nine provinces along the river [1][22]. - The Yellow River has achieved continuous flow for 26 years and has maintained Class II water quality for three consecutive years, with over 90% of the river basin classified as having good water quality [5][22]. Group 2: Upper Reaches Initiatives - In the upper reaches, efforts focus on sand control and reducing sediment content, with the sediment concentration decreasing from an average of 27.5 kg/m³ to 5.76 kg/m³ by 2024 [3][9]. - The implementation of ecological restoration projects, such as planting trees and constructing check dams, has led to the treatment of over 60% of the exposed toxic sandstone areas [9][10]. Group 3: Middle Reaches Improvements - In the middle reaches, particularly in the Shanxi section, significant improvements in water quality have been achieved through enhanced industrial wastewater treatment and strict management of urban and rural sewage [12][22]. - The goal is to have the Fen River, a major tributary, reach Class III water quality by the end of 2024, ensuring that its water meets the standards before entering the Yellow River [12][22]. Group 4: Lower Reaches Restoration - The lower reaches focus on comprehensive management of riverbanks, transforming previously degraded areas into productive agricultural zones, such as the establishment of peach orchards in Henan [15][22]. - The ecological restoration efforts have turned barren riverbanks into lush landscapes, significantly improving local livelihoods [15][22]. Group 5: Delta and Wetland Conservation - The Yellow River Delta serves as a crucial ecological defense, with ongoing efforts to enhance wetland ecosystems through improved water management and sediment flow from upstream reservoirs [20][22]. - The delta's ecological vitality is gradually recovering, contributing to biodiversity and environmental stability [20][22]. Group 6: Integrated Management Approach - The management of the Yellow River has shifted from a fragmented approach to a unified strategy that integrates upstream and downstream efforts, supported by national legislation and major ecological projects [22][24]. - The implementation of the Yellow River Protection Law has established a framework for coordinated water and sediment management, reversing the historical trend of river drying and pollution [24].