On June 5th, the "Yangtze River Simulator Development and Application" was named one of China's "Top 10 Ecological and Environmental Scientific Advancements." Led by the Institute of Hydrobiology (IHB) of the Chinese Academy of Sciences, the project focuses on simulating and addressing environmental challenges in the Yangtze River Basin. This recognition follows an earlier honor, where the simulator was also included in the "Top 10 Geographical Science Research Advances in China." 

The Yangtze River Simulator is a cutting-edge system designed to model the natural and human-driven processes in the Yangtze River Basin. By integrating hydrology, flood defense, water quality, and biodiversity into one platform, it supports coordinated management of critical issues like flood control, hydropower, and the conservation of aquatic species. The simulator emphasizes the interconnectedness of the river's upper, middle, and lower reaches, linking lakes, shorelines, and urban centers to create a comprehensive view of the region’s ecosystem.

Led by Prof. WANG Hongzhu, the team developed the simulator’s ecological environment module as part of a broader national project. This module includes systems for modeling water dynamics, food webs, pollution control, and shoreline restoration. For the first time, the project proposed a holistic restoration plan for the middle and lower reaches of the Yangtze, targeting biological integrity and pollution management. 

The Yangtze River Simulator has already been put to use in ecological restoration projects, including pollution interception in Yichang and floodplain restoration in Huangshi. By providing valuable insights and data, the simulator is playing a key role in supporting both the protection of the Yangtze River and the sustainable development of the Yangtze Economic Belt. 

This breakthrough not only marks a significant step in environmental science but also offers practical tools to improve river basin management and promote green development in the region.