A Hidden Gem Called Changdao

By Hendy Yuniarto

Breathtaking scenery and the islanders’commitment to sustainable living

A seascape in Changdao. (COURTESY OF THE MARINE ECOLOGICAL CIVILIZATION COMPREHENSIVE EXPERIMENTAL AREA OF CHANGDAO)

Changdao Island,a hidden gem in east China’s Shandong Province,features breathtaking nature.As the sun cuddles the horizon,the island’s azure sky provides a flawless backdrop to an exquisite panorama.Jagged cliffs carved by centuries of endless waves stand guard along the shoreline,their rocky silhouettes seemingly frozen in time,summoning ancient majesty.Against this dramatic backdrop,flocks of seagulls take flight,their ivory wings catching the golden hues of the sun,creating an enchanting ballet in the sky.The air is filled with the gentle cries of these graceful birds,enhancing the island’s serenity.This harmonious blend of nature’s elements,from the sapphire sea to the towering cliffs and the mesmerizing flight of seagulls,makes Changdao Island an artistic masterpiece painted by the hand of mother nature herself.

This testament is carved in the mind of anyone who has laid eyes on the scenery of Changdao Island.The ferry picked me up from the Penglai Port,gently docking at the edge of the pier,welcoming both tourists and locals.On board,I was immediately greeted by hundreds of seagulls dancing in anticipation,waiting for visitors to toss pieces of bread into the air.In the blink of an eye,the agile birds swooped down to snatch the crumbs and patrol the departing ferry.The ferry journey across the Bohai Sea took 45 minutes,leading to Changdao Island for my first visit.

My initial thoughts about the small island were that it likely lacks many apartments,tall buildings,shops,and public facilities.However,I was mistaken,as Changdao’s true character is that of a small town with comprehensive amenities.Electric cars were a common sight,and even my internet speed remained unhindered.The streets were admirably clean,surrounded by lush greenery,and buildings were neatly arranged and pleasing to the eye.Occasionally,I spotted apple trees.The gentle coastal breeze brought peace to my soul,complemented by the warm hospitality of the locals.We communicated as if we had known each other for a long time,and they were more than happy to answer questions and assist me whenever I faced difficulties.

Local residents participate in the activity to exchange“waste-sorting points” for household items. (HENDY YUNIARTO)

My admiration for Changdao Island extended beyond its beauty,cleanliness,and the warmth of its residents.They also explained how they care for the environment.Upon closer observation,I frequently noticed colorful bins for waste sorting.Each bin represented a specific type of waste such as plastic,paper,kitchen waste,hazardous waste,and more.Changdao residents eagerly helped me understand how to use the automatic waste bins.Every resident possessed a card to swipe at the waste disposal machines,much like withdrawing money from an ATM.By selecting the type of waste,the machine’s door automatically opened,allowing us to deposit the garbage.For every piece of waste disposed of,we earned points that could later be exchanged for household items like plastic bags,tissues,and soap at the exchange machines.

Thanks to technology and aid from volunteers,Changdao residents became well accustomed to waste sorting practices.This habit contributed to the cleanliness of the island’s environment.Every few months,a waste-pointexchange event is held in the town square.Various rewards such as rice,cooking oil,laundry soap,and other household necessities entice residents to attend and exchange their points.Residents,from housewives to various workers,flock to the event early in the morning to enthusiastically participate.The local government’s strategies to motivate participation in waste sorting inspired me because they could easily be implemented elsewhere.

Smart waste-sorting bins at the entrance of a residential community in Changdao. (HENDY YUNIARTO)

China’s journey to effective waste management began with modest trials of waste sorting back in 2000.Despite these initial efforts,landfills and unregulated waste continued to plague the urban landscape,triggering public outrage against plans for more incinerators.Over time,environmental organizations and local authorities recognized that the only sustainable solution was comprehensive waste sorting and recycling,thus minimizing the necessity of incineration.

During a 2018 visit to Shanghai,President Xi Jinping emphasized the imperative of collective involvement in waste management,stating,“Waste handling requires everyone’s participation.” Building on this vision,Shanghai took the lead and made household waste sorting mandatory in July of the following year,setting a pioneering example.Subsequently,numerous other cities across the nation embraced Shanghai’s model,enforcing obligatory waste sorting,and now nearly 300 cities have implemented various forms of waste separation and recycling initiatives.This marked shift in approach signifies China’s commitment to a cleaner,more sustainable future.

China’s waste sorting management clearly plays a pivotal role in both environmental conservation and societal well-being.First and foremost,it significantly reduces the burden on landfills and incineration facilities,curbing the release of harmful pollutants and greenhouse gases.This,in turn,helps mitigate climate change and improves air and water quality,thereby safeguarding the health of our communities.Moreover,effective waste sorting promotes recycling and upcycling of materials,conserving valuable resources and reducing the need for raw material extraction,which is often ecologically destructive.

On the societal front,waste sorting not only creates job opportunities in the recycling industry but also fosters a sense of responsibility and environmental awareness among the Changdao Island residents.It encourages people to think consciously about their consumption habits and waste generation,leading to reduced waste production and increased sustainability.Changdao Island’s robust waste sorting practices foster cleaner and more attractive living environments,which can boost tourism and contribute to a higher quality of life for residents.The Changdao community,highly aware of living in harmony with nature,has become a pristine example for others.At the very least,I learned how to sort waste,a small step toward a more civilized and healthy society.

In recent years,Changdao Island has emerged as a captivating destination for those seeking natural beauty,serene landscapes,and a tranquil escape from bustling big cities.As a traveler,I can attest that Changdao Island is a hidden gem waiting to be explored.The island’s coastline offers ample opportunities for boating and fishing.I enjoyed some truly extraordinary culinary adventures here,consuming fresh and tasty seafood with locals.I also purchased local souvenirs such as dried fish,crab sauce,and a few handmade crafts.Changdao Island offered me valuable and unforgettable surprises,experiences,and charm.

The harmonious blend of natural beauty,cultural heritage,and ecofriendly endeavors make the locale the perfect getaway for travelers seeking serenity and opportunities to connect with nature.Whether you’re an adventurer,a nature lover,or simply in search of a peaceful retreat,this enchanting island has something to offer.Changdao Island beckons those who seek a slower pace of life,appreciate nature’s wonders,and revel in the island’s rich history and eco-conscious values.A destination so emblematic of the beauty and significance of the natural world,Changdao Island shines as a beacon advocating preservation for future generations.