Improvements in Water Quality at Taihu Lake Mark a Significant Environmental Milestone

The water of Taihu Lake, China's third-largest freshwater lake located in the lower Yangtze River area, has achieved a Grade III quality rating in 2024, marking the first time in 30 years that its water quality has been designated as fairly good, as reported by the Jiangsu provincial department of ecology and environment. The grading system used by China classifies surface water into five tiers, with Grade I representing the highest quality. A Grade III rating implies that the water is suitable for a variety of aquatic life.

Historically, Taihu Lake has faced serious pollution challenges, particularly after the onset of rapid industrialization and urbanization in the Yangtze River Delta region post-1970s reform era. A 2012 report highlighted that a significant number of rivers flowing into the lake were contaminated, showcasing a troubling environmental picture. Shallow lakes like Taihu are especially difficult to manage due to their sediment, which can easily be disturbed, leading to nutrient pollution.

The recent enhancement in the water quality of Taihu can be credited to concerted efforts by the Jiangsu authorities, who have undertaken extensive pollution management initiatives. Since 2007, over 300 billion yuan (approximately $41 billion) has been allocated towards improving the lake’s ecosystem, focusing on managing pollution sources and intercepting pollutants. Additionally, substantial physical clean-up efforts have been made, including the dredging of around 6.4 million cubic meters of sediment and the removal of over 1.7 million metric tons of harmful blue-green algae.

Jiangsu officials have implemented various ecological restoration measures, such as the planting of submerged plants and the restoration of reed habitats, contributing to the recovery of wetland areas. The number of designated wetland protection zones has also increased, effectively reversing the decline in Taihu's wetland environments. Continuous management has resulted in annual improvements in water quality, demonstrating a balance between environmental restoration and economic growth.

The cities surrounding Taihu, including Suzhou, Wuxi, and Changzhou, have shifted their industrial focus towards tertiary sectors since 2014, indicating a successful transition that supports the local economy without compromising environmental integrity. As noted by Jiang Wei, head of the Jiangsu ecology and environment department, the successful management of Taihu Lake serves as a strong example that with determination and appropriate strategies, large and shallow lakes can be effectively preserved.