Jilin has witnessed drastic changes and development across the board since the start of China's reform and opening-up in 1978.

With unparalleled agricultural conditions, a superb ecological environment and abundant resources in science, technology and education, the northeastern province is continuing to open and innovate, pushing for economic transformation and revitalization.

Building for an ecologically sound future

The popular Tianchi Lake in the Changbai Mountain scenic area in Jilin. [Photo provided to chinadaily.com.cn]

Jilin covers an area of approximately 187,400 square kilometers, with grasslands in the west, mountains in the east and plains in the center. There are 51 national reserves in the province, and the forest coverage rate reaches 44.3 percent.

The province's superb environment and ecology are its most precious treasures and greatest resources. In 1999, the Chinese government approved making Jilin one of the country's pilot provinces for ecological construction, leading to the establishment of numerous projects and initiatives.

Three "function zones" have been identified in east, west and central Jilin, through which the local government is attempting to implement a development model that integrates the environment and economy, and harmonizes humans and nature.