2023 International Workshop on the Frontiers in Ecohydrology

Professor Yu Zhongbo Attended the Opening Ceremony and Symposium of 2023 International Workshop on the Frontiers in Ecohydrology

The opening ceremony and symposium of 2023 International Workshop on the Frontiers in Ecohydrology was successfully held in Chongqing on September 11^th. The workshop, jointly hosted by the Chongqing Institute of Green and Intelligent Technology of Chinese Academy of Sciences and UNESCO-IHP Ecohydrology Programme, aimed to enhance participants' understanding of the frontiers of ecological hydrology and promote sustainable water resources management. 19 participants from 17 countries participated in the three-week training and exchange program. Professor Yu Zhongbo, President of UNESCO-IHP and Director of the National Key Laboratory of Water Disaster Prevention, attended the opening ceremony and symposium, delivered a welcome speech, and gave a keynote report entitled "Integrated approaches for addressing challenges in water security and sustainability".

The symposium focused on the construction of ecological hydrology demonstration zones and other related cases. Professor Yu Zhongbo introduced the Chinese water culture, especially the classic cases of the harmonious coexistence of human and water such as the Liangzhu Culture Water Conservancy Project, Dujiangyan Dam and the important role of the modern Three Gorges Dam and the South-to-North Water Diversion. Moreover, he presented the specific actions of China in water science, water education, water management and water governance, integrated with UNESCO IHP-IX. He called for joint efforts in strengthening cooperation in water security and sustainable development and implementing the UNESCO IHP-IX to accelerate the achievement of the water-related goals of the United Nations 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development.

On September 12th, the experts and participants of the workshop participated in field visits and research activities in Guangyang Island and Jiulongtan along the main stream of the Yangtze River. These on-site inspections deepened the participants' understanding of the practical applications of ecological hydrology in restoration demonstration areas.

This workshop serves as an important annual event of the UNESCO-IHP Ecohydrology Programme, creating a significant platform for international cooperation and exchange in the field of ecological hydrology. It not only promotes the progress of ecological hydrology research but also fosters collaboration and mutual development in sustainable water resources management internationally.