China’s Tianmu Mountain reserve tackles modern conservation amid religious tradition

The Qingliangfeng National Nature Reserve, situated on the eastern coast of China, has recently undergone a monumental expansion, growing from 4,300 hectares (10,630 acres) to becoming the expansive Tianmushan-Qingliangfeng UNESCO World Biosphere Reserve, covering 54,700 hectares (135,170 acres) in 2025. This makes it the first such expansion in China's history.

The reserve, renowned as the "kingdom of big trees," is home to the ancient and endangered Ginkgo biloba, among other precious species such as the Chinese pangolin, black muntjac, Chinese golden larch, and Tianmu ironwood.

Religious traditions, including Buddhist, Daoist, and Confucian, have traditionally been instrumental in preserving the local flora and fauna in this mountainous region. Local temples enforced stringent rules and penalties against deforestation, but with the recent reserve expansion, state regulations now provide the formal legal framework for the area. Despite this shift, religious traditions continue to significantly influence public attitudes towards conservation.

Lu Senhong, head of the publicity and education division at the Tianmu National Nature Reserve Administration Bureau, explained to Mongabay that the reserve holds immense value not just for its biodiversity, but also because locals hold a deep belief that every tree, flower, and bird carries a spirit. This reverence for nature has played a crucial role in protecting the mountain and its inhabitants.

The administration now formally oversees the reserve, while continuing to uphold and build upon the religious traditions that have long served as guardians of its natural wealth.