Considering the issue of biodiversity conservation at the highest level – the CCICED (China Council for International Cooperation on Environment and Developmen), the need for expert engagement is more immediate.

With China gearing up to to lead the global biodiversity agenda between now and 2022, Dr. Balakrishna’s visit and interaction with #NatureForAll and IUCN members has been very timely. He worked with Ms. Hanying Li, Regional Vice Chair, East Asia in reaching out to key institutions such as the Beijing Forest Society, the Foreign and Economic Cooperation Office of Ministry of Ecology and Environment, the Institute of Botany of CAS and the Beijing Forest University on the need for embarking on a new and innovative programme to deliver the biodiversity goals at national an international levels.

During his visit, he also delivered a few lectures on topic such as making conservation careers, conservation futures, understanding the CBD and preparing for CBD COP15 in 2020. The discussions were progressive for IUCN in general and CEC in particular with more people, especially youth, interested to work with IUCN and becoming CEC members. Students from Beijing Forest University expressed that the lectures were eye-opening and greatly inspired them to be involved in conservation.

Photo: CEC

Hanying Li, IUCN CEC Regional Vice Chair for East Asia, is a passionate development professional with a strong interest in environmental education, communications and public campaigns gained over a period of 21 years. Hanying's professional career includes 15 years of experience working in China on policy advocacy, communications and fundraising. In addition, for over five years she promoted sustainable conservation in the Greater Indian Ocean area and implemented a fundraising strategy in the Asia Pacific region.