Zhou Hua calls for scientific utilization of karst caves

Zhou Hua, a member of the Guizhou Provincial Committee of the Chinese People's Political Consultative Conference (CPPCC), called for strengthened scientific utilization of Guizhou's karst caves during this year's Guizhou Provincial Two Sessions.

"Guizhou, located at the heart of China's southern karst region, is rich in karst caves, which have already been utilized for tourism, computing power bases, sports events, hydropower generation, and storage," said Zhou in an interview on Jan 18.

Zhou noted that compared to other countries and provinces, Guizhou still lags in scientific research, utilization methods, industrial chain development, and public awareness of karst caves, preventing the full realization of these natural treasures' unique value.

He suggested launching major projects to protect and utilize caves, using their constant temperature, humidity, and geological stability and integrating them into the province's tourism sector.

He also proposed developing related industries, such as mountain tourism and cave exploration, while enhancing public awareness to promote the conservation and sustainable use of these natural wonders.