Wildlife Neighbors

• Problem

Between 1950 and 2000, China lost half of its coastal wetlands. Around 90% of China's grasslands and 53% of its coastal wetlands are degraded. China has also lost 80% of its coral reefs and 73% of its mangroves since 1950. Moreover, it is estimated that 15% to 20% of wild higher plants are endangered, 233 vertebrate species face extinction and about 44% of wild animals are in decline. Loss of genetic resources is also great.

As Beijing's skyline continues to rise, a quieter disappearance is occurring at ground level. Fortunately, efforts are made to mend the mistakes we have made, and fortunately, effectively. Bird biodiversity is increasing annually with the area of urban green spaces expanding in Beijing. As cities expand, natural habitats shrink, forcing wildlife to adapt — or disappear. Urbanization leads to deforestation, pollution, and habitat fragmentation, leaving animals with fewer resources to survive on. In Beijing, rapid development is already displacing natural habitats, reducing biodiversity and weakening ecosystems. This growing disconnect between humans and nature calls for action. How can we create safe spaces for urban wildlife while fostering community awareness? The answer lies in grassroots environmental projects—like Wildlife Neighbors, a student-led initiative at Keystone Academy.

• Solution

Wildlife Neighbors is an environmental project focused on human-nature coexistence and wildlife conservation. The original founder has a passion for environmental activism and has participated in similar activities of observing wildlife using infrared cameras. Hence, she brought her passion to Keystone and transformed it into a fun and realistic project. As the original founder left to pursue her studies in  Johns Hopkins University, the project has been passed down to Keystone students who share a passion for environmental activism.

"The garden follows permaculture principles," explains current leader Sally Xue (Grade 10). "We chose plants that feed each other—milkweed for monarchs, berry bushes for birds, and flowering plants for pollinators."

1. Habitat Restoration

The team collaborates with Keystone’s gardening department to create wildlife-friendly spaces on campus. A pond and garden area have been established to provide shelter, food, and water for local animals. Native plants are cultivated to attract insects, birds, and other animals, promoting biodiversity.

2. Wildlife Monitoring with Infrared Cameras

Motion-activated infrared cameras are set up to observe animals without disturbing them. This data helps track species diversity and behavior, providing insights into urban wildlife adaptation. All the pictures are shared with the community to foster enjoyment and engaging experiences for students.

3. Community Awareness & Education

The team organizes events and workshops to educate students about urban wildlife. Social media and school publications help spread awareness beyond campus.

4. Collaborations & Challenges

To turn ideas into action, Wildlife Neighbors partnered with Keystone’s gardening department for land use and maintenance. They also partnered with other school environmental clubs, but these previous partnerships weakened as students graduated.

Hence, maintaining momentum and continuing to expand  this project has been a challenge. Previously, having too many members led to a lack of commitment. However, currently, having too few members is leading to reduced efficiency. To solve this, the current leader Sally Xue (Keystone G10), restructured tasks by assigning clear roles to each member, in the hope that this may lead to a clearer workload division.

• Impact

1. Environmental Benefits

The pond and garden have already become a mini-sanctuary for local wildlife. Insects, birds, and possibly small mammals have been spotted in the area, proving that even small green spaces can make a difference. The infrared cameras have documented these visits, providing valuable data on urban biodiversity.

2. Educational Influence

Students involved in the project gain hands-on experience in urban ecology and conservation. They learn how to monitor wildlife, maintain habitats, and engage their community in environmental efforts. Additionally, the project inspires other schools to consider similar initiatives.

3. Future Growth

While the project is currently focused on Keystone’s campus, there is potential for expansion. The team hopes to strengthen partnerships with other schools and environmental organizations, increase outreach through social media and collaborations with platforms like EcoAction Magazine, and improve habitat management to ensure long-term sustainability.

• Conclusion 

Wildlife Neighbors demonstrates that students have the power to drive meaningful environmental change. By restoring habitats, monitoring wildlife, and educating their peers, they are bridging the gap between urban life and nature. The project’s success lies in its adaptability—each new generation of students brings fresh ideas while staying true to its core mission. For other schools looking to start similar initiatives, Wildlife Neighbors proves that you don’t need vast resources—just passion, teamwork, and a small green space to make a difference. Every effort, no matter how small, contributes to a healthier planet.

• Want to get involved?

Reach out to EcoAction Magazine by emailing ecoactionmagazine@outlook to inquire how you can get involved in, partner with, or contribute to Wildlife Neighbors.

• References

https://www.cbd.int/countries/profile?country=cn#:~:text=Moreover%2C%20it%20is%20estimated%20that,genetic%20resources%20is%20also%20great.

https://www.pbs.org/newshour/science/analysis-is-china-ready-to-lead-on-protecting-nature-at-the-upcoming-un-biodiversity-conference#:~:text=Around%2090%25%20of%20China's%20grasslands,the%20nation's%20remaining%20biodiversity%20strongholds.