In a study published in Integrative Conservation, researchers from Xishuangbanna Tropical Botanical Garden (XTBG) outline actionable recommendations to enhance the implementation and impact of China's updated National Key Protected Wild Plants (NKPWP) list. The list is a cornerstone of China's strategy to protect its rich flora (approximately 41,000 species) and support the transition toward an ecological civilization.

The 2021 update to the NKPWP nearly tripled the number of protected species to about 1,200 taxa, extending protection for the first time to groups like bryophytes and over 200 orchid species. It adopts a "precautionary principle" to safeguard species with potential future economic value and aligns with global frameworks like the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework (KMGBF).

While the updated NKPWP has addressed many previous challenges, experts identify areas for further improvement. They proposed to employ integrative taxonomy to resolve taxonomic ambiguities that hinder conservation by using genomic, morphological, and ecological data. Secondly, to implement adaptive conservation strategies integrating technological solutions and local community-based monitoring. DNA barcoding and image recognition can track species and combat illegal trade, while involving local communities enhances monitoring and fosters stewardship.

Furthermore, they suggested promoting science-driven, sustainable utilization of plant resources. Artificial propagation, certification systems, and DNA-based traceability can meet market demand while alleviating pressure on wild populations, turning conservation into an economic asset for local communities.

Lastly, they proposed to strengthen transboundary collaboration. Initiatives should include harmonizing protection lists with neighboring countries, joint research, capacity-building programs, and leveraging international funding to address regional conservation challenges collectively.

By adopting these recommendations, China can strengthen the NKPWP as a model of evidence-based, inclusive governance, securing plant diversity for future generations and advancing its vision of ecological civilization.

Contact

SHAO Shicheng Ph.D

Xishuangbanna Tropical Botanical Garden

E-mail: shaoshicheng@xtbg.org.cn

First published: 16 December 2025