Eco-corridors play a vital role in connecting natural habitats, enabling wildlife to move freely across landscapes. AECOM was appointed as the conceptual masterplanner for the Dachang Eco-Corridor, one of six key corridors in Nanjing, China.
The Challenge
Eco-corridor masterplans must strike a balance between ecological priorities and human needs. The Dachang corridor presented a unique challenge: it sits at the heart of Nanjing’s largest industrial zone, raising significant concerns around potential contamination that had to be carefully addressed.
Solutions and Involvement
Our approach focused on restoring and strengthening the ecological functions of the corridor. In the first stage, we established a series of control measures, including water system management, green corridor regulation and the conversion of existing building plots into green space.
A key element was the creation of a pollution protection buffer zone and ecological framework to safeguard the local environment. We also delivered water system design, ecological restoration and brownfield remediation services, providing an environmental shield for neighboring residential communities.
Achievements and Outcomes
Our primary objective was to protect, restore and promote the sustainable use of terrestrial ecosystems while supporting forest management, preventing land degradation and enhancing biodiversity. Beyond these ecological goals, the scheme also improved quality of life for residents and visitors by introducing more accessible green spaces within the city.
In the second stage of the project, ecological value was enhanced through the introduction of diverse water and landscape habitats, creating a multifunctional green corridor. This not only provided habitats for local species, but also strengthened protection for surrounding communities and expanded access to urban green spaces.
Our Work and the SDGs
The United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) set a global agenda to end poverty, protect the planet and promote prosperity for all. AECOM supports these goals. You can explore our Sustainability Report to learn more about how our work with clients on projects such as the Dachang Eco-Corridor is helping to shape a more sustainable future.