The 2024 World Science and Technology Development Forum (WSTDF) held a thematic session in Beijing on Oct. 24 on "Harmonious Coexistence of Nature and Humanity: Environment and Health," aimed at bolstering international cooperation in promoting harmony between nature and humanity.

The session focused on topics including ecosystem services, urban development and environmental-social symbiosis, featuring keynote speeches and roundtable dialogues. Participants called for stronger cross-disciplinary research and international cooperation to establish a sustainable development model that enhances both human health and environmental integrity.

Attendees take part in the "Harmonious Coexistence of Nature and Humanity: Environment and Health" thematic session at WSTDF 2024, Beijing, Oct. 24, 2024. [Photo courtesy of the China Association for Science and Technology]

Preserving ecosystems and biodiversity

Zheng Hua, a researcher at the Research Center for Eco-Environmental Sciences of the Chinese Academy of Sciences (CAS), delivered a keynote speech on developing ecosystem service science to promote harmonious coexistence between humanity and nature. He emphasized that ecosystems provide humans with a range of products, regulatory services and cultural services, and that increasing the supply of ecosystem services is fundamental to promoting harmonious coexistence between humans and nature. By focusing on three key questions — where ecosystem services are provided, how much service they provide, and how much benefit is gained by the recipients — and using "gross ecosystem product (GEP)" to calculate the total value of ecosystem-related products and services, we can develop ecosystem service science further to support scientific decision-making, which can help foster harmony between humans and nature.

Yvon Le Maho, emeritus director of research at France's National Center for Scientific Research (CNRS), highlighted the importance of biodiversity and scientific research. In his speech, he noted the vital importance of certain species for marine fisheries and biomedical innovation. 

In an interview with China.org.cn, Maho emphasized the significance of biodiversity conservation, mentioning the Beijing Call for Biodiversity Conservation and Climate Change jointly issued by China and France, as well as the establishment of the Sino-French International Biodiversity Research Network.

He also praised China's efforts in biodiversity conservation, particularly its support for curiosity-driven research, and expressed hope for greater youth involvement in this field.

Building better cities

NG Shiu Tong Thomas, a professor at the City University of Hong Kong, presented on reducing carbon emissions in urban environments. He stressed the importance of the built environment in carbon reduction and disease prevention, advocating for sustainable practices in both construction and operations.

Jin Ying, a professor at the University of Cambridge, shared insights on urban development, emphasizing the need to balance ecological protection with active development. He noted that new projects offer significant opportunities to repair urban damage and adapt infrastructure to evolving activity patterns driven by digital connectivity.

Jin told China.org.cn that countries could learn from each other's sustainable urban development experiences. He acknowledged progress made by urban planners globally, but cautioned against increased reliance on cars as suburban populations grow, complicating decarbonization efforts. He encouraged greater engagement from Chinese professionals in understanding these challenges, highlighting the innovative approaches emerging from the Global South.

Collaborating to build a brighter future

Wan Gang, chairman of WSTDF 2024 and president of CAST, once emphasized the need for global adherence to common values in scientific development. He highlighted the role of technological progress in accelerating sustainable development and enhancing human well-being.

Graham Alabaster, director of the UN-Habitat's Geneva Office, identified two critical areas for improving living conditions for vulnerable groups and addressing future open spaces. He noted the importance of private sector collaboration and called for increased funding for basic research to advance scientific development.

Zhu Yong-Guan, director general of the Research Center for Eco-Environmental Sciences at CAS, underscored the diversity of participants at the conference. He emphasized that this diversity is crucial for addressing major challenges such as sustainable development and fostering a harmonious society. Participants were encouraged to share their knowledge and insights, breaking down disciplinary barriers.

"We don't need to duplicate efforts; we can share and exchange," Zhu said. "Regardless of geography, discipline, lifestyle or geopolitical systems, we are all connected. There is only one Earth."

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