A glimpse of the pristine blue waters and clear skies within the Lingshan Island Nature Reserve. [Photo/VCG]

The 2024 gross ecosystem product (GEP) for the Lingshan Island Nature Reserve in Qingdao West Coast New Area has reached 706 million yuan ($100 million), marking a 14.3 percent increase of 88.5 million yuan compared to the previous year. This figure translates the island's environmental assets into economic data.

Regulating services are the foundation of this valuation, contributing 579 million yuan, or 82 percent of the total GEP. This is a result of long-term ecological efforts, such as reforestation projects that have raised forest coverage to over 80 percent. Key projects, including shoreline stabilization and oyster reef restoration, involved planting over 200,000 trees and rehabilitating 16.07 hectares of land, supporting the island's ecological stability.

Material provision services accounted for 64 million yuan. The local fishing industry is a key factor, using its status as a national aquatic germplasm resource reserve to improve the quality of premium seafood like abalone and sea cucumbers. This green supply chain supports sustainable economic growth without compromising marine health.

Cultural services generated 63 million yuan through integrated eco-tourism. The island has revitalized its geological landscapes and biodiversity to develop 53 premium homestays and new maritime travel routes. Notably, the reserve has adopted the low-altitude economy by launching northern China's first regular island logistics drone route, facilitating direct aerial delivery.

By combining conservation with innovative, Lingshan Island has created a sustainable model where ecological advantages directly fuel regional prosperity.