Zhou Jinfeng on Field Biodiversity Research at Tonglushan Ancient Copper Mine Site in Daye, Hubei Province

On December 28, 2023, Dr. Zhou Jinfeng, Secretary-General of the China Biodiversity Conservation and Green Development Foundation (CBCGDF), led a research team to conduct biodiversity research at the Tonglushan Ancient Copper Mine Site in Daye City, Hubei Province. Located approximately 3 kilometers southwest of the urban area of Daye City on the south bank of the middle reaches of the Yangtze River, Tonglushan is an ancient mining and metallurgical site centered around mining and smelting remnants.

During the research, Dr. Zhou Jinfeng and his team documented Elsholtzia loeseneri Hand.-Mazz., commonly known as "Tongcao flowers”(铜草花). The unique relationship between Tongcao flowers and mineral resources is profound and distinctive. Tongcao flowers, as a special plant, thrive in soils rich in copper elements and are closely related to copper mines. In ancient times, when mining technology was underdeveloped, Tongcao flowers played a crucial role in locating copper mines. Their uniqueness lies in their ability to grow in areas abundant with copper deposits, acting as a natural indicator of copper mines.

The presence of Tongcao flowers fosters a distinct ecological environment in mining areas and serves as a "home" for various local insects. Beyond being a beautiful natural landscape, Tongcao flowers also function as plants contributing to the ecological restoration of mining areas. They carry the genes and characteristics of industrial civilization remnants in mining sites, not only preserving unique natural landscapes but also promoting biodiversity and sustainable development in mining areas. Relevant biodiversity information about Tongcao flowers will be released on the Global Biodiversity Information Facility (GBIF).

The relationship between mining areas and biodiversity has long been a subject of concern. Mining activities often entail significant ground disturbance, widely considered one of the drivers of biodiversity loss. However, in reality, with careful upfront biodiversity assessments, ongoing biodiversity management throughout the process, and subsequent biodiversity restoration efforts, it is possible to mitigate biodiversity loss to a considerable extent and, in some cases, even restore biodiversity. Effective planning and management practices can help strike a balance between mining operations and the preservation of diverse ecosystems, showcasing the potential for coexistence and sustainability in areas traditionally viewed as incompatible with biodiversity conservation.

Previously, as a qualified academic society to publish group standards in China, the CBCGDF has developed and published the national group standard "Biodiversity of Mining Areas" (T/CGDF 00034-2022). 

(Details: http://www.ttbz.org.cn/StandardManage/Detail/71176/)



Reported by Linda
Reviewed by Daisy

Contact: v10@cbcgdf.org; +8617319454776

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