Against the backdrop of Porpoises Leaping in Clear Waves, Skies High and Waters Flowing, to enhance college students' environmental awareness and promote biodiversity protection, the School of Business, in collaboration with the Nanjing Yangtze Finless Porpoise Waterborne Wildlife Conservation Association, organized a public welfare science popularization event titled Yangtze Finless Porpoise Waterborne Wildlife Conservation on November 23, 2024. The aim of this event was to call on students to pay attention to and participate in the protection of the Yangtze finless porpoise and its ecological environment through science education and interactive experiences. Known as the smiling angel, this rare species urgently needs collective efforts for its preservation.
The event began at the Yangtze Finless Porpoise Themed Book House, where professional guides from the Yangtze Waterborne Wildlife Conservation Association used vivid and engaging language to unveil the mysteries of the finless porpoise for the students. From the endearing physical characteristics of the porpoises to their unique living habits in the Yangtze River waters, and further to the social behaviors within their family groups, a series of lively depictions of the Yangtze finless porpoise were presented. These illustrations not only showcased the graceful beauty of the porpoises but also highlighted the significant survival challenges they face. Through this experience, a sense of responsibility for protecting the finless porpoise and preserving the ecosystem was quietly instilled in the hearts of the students.
Led by the guides, the participants walked along the banks of the Yangtze River to a viewing spot known for frequent sightings of the finless porpoise. There, they stood for a long time, their eyes intently scanning the water’s surface, determined not to miss any fleeting moments when the porpoises might leap out. The anticipation of witnessing these elegant creatures in action kept everyone engrossed and hopeful.
The students then visited the Yangtze Waterborne Wildlife Science Popularization Museum. Inside, they saw lifelike aquatic organism specimens and detailed models that vividly displayed the unique structures and survival methods of various aquatic species. The guides used extensive real data and case studies to reveal the harsh reality of the deteriorating ecological environment in the Yangtze River. They emphasized the critical importance of protecting the Yangtze finless porpoise for maintaining ecological balance and biodiversity. Through this visit, the students not only marveled at the wonders and magnificence of nature but also gained a profound understanding of the indispensable role each species plays in maintaining ecological balance.
Guarding the Smiling Angels and Painting a Lifeline for the Yangtze. The successful hosting of this science popularization event has not only deepened the students' understanding of the protection of the Yangtze finless porpoise and other aquatic species but also sparked their enthusiasm to actively engage in ecological conservation actions. This contributes positively to the protection of the Yangtze ecosystem. Looking ahead, the School of Business will continue to partner with environmental organizations to conduct more diverse public welfare activities. Together, they aim to create a beautiful vision of harmonious coexistence between humans and nature, ensuring that the waters of the Yangtze River remain plentiful and that the smiling angels (the finless porpoises) continue to flourish.