Representatives unveil the nameplate of the new alliance. [Photo/ynu.edu.cn]

Representatives sign a cooperative deal at the ceremony marking the establishment of the organization. [Photo/ynu.edu.cn]

The Research Alliance on Ecological Civilization along Yangtze River Economic Belt was established in Hangzhou City, East China’s Zhejiang province, on Oct 8.

The idea was proposed by Zhejiang University, which partnered with a further 19 universities and institutes along the Yangtze River Economic Belt to establish the alliance. Yunnan University (YNU) was one of the 20 members of the organization. 

The organization was set up in the context of China putting increased emphasis on protecting the environment along the Yangtze River Economic Belt. 

The aim of the alliance is to develop innovative technologies and mechanisms to improve and maintain local ecosystems along the belt by building a platform whereby members of the alliance can share information, data and human resources. 

Before the alliance officially started operations, members of the association held various meetings to discuss the regulations the organization would follow, as well as to agree on the members of the executive committee. 

Ding Zhongli, vice-dean of the Chinese Academy of Sciences; Peng Jiaxue, vice-governor of Zhejiang province; Zou Xiaodong, Party secretary of Zhejiang University, and Zhang Quanxing, professor at Nanjing University, jointly unveiled the nameplate of the organization.

At the ceremony hosted by Yan Jianhua, vice-president of Zhejiang University, Wu Chaohui, president of Zhejiang University and Peng Jiaxue, both delivered speeches. 

Led by Zhao Qihua, vice-president of YNU, Li Qingjun, dean of the School of Ecology and Environment, and Hu Jinming, dean of the Institute of International Rivers and Ecological Safety, attended the ceremony. 

On behalf of YNU, Zhao Qihua signed the cooperative agreement. Li Qingjun was elected to serve on the executive committee of the alliance.