China takes centre stage in global biodiversity push
A major United Nations summit could see China push for ambitious targets and spotlights the country's own conservation efforts. The giant panda ( Ailuropoda melanoleuca ) was upgraded from endangered to vulnerable in 2016. Credit: Cyril Ruoso/Minden Pictures/National Geographic The giant panda ( Ailuropoda melanoleuca ) was upgraded from endangered to vulnerable in 2016. Credit: Cyril Ruoso/Minden Pictures/National Geographic The world’s species and natural ecosystems are in crisis. When nearly 200 countries gather in ten days to thrash out a major plan to stem the precipitous decline, China is expected to take a prominent role. The high-stakes negotiations will set the stage for a major biodiversity summit in October, which the country will also host — marking the first time the nation will lead global talks on the environment. That role as host, together with China's growing global influence — including its vast Belt and Road Initiative to build i