Zou Tongqian, professor at Beijing International Studies University (BISU) was recently awarded the highest honor in ecology and environment in Uzbekistan — the "Tabiat himoyachisi" ("Defender of Nature") Badge.

He received the badge from Aziz Abdukhakimov, minister of ecology, environmental protection and climate change, during the 14th Conference of the Parties to the United Nations Convention on the Conservation of Migratory Species of Wild Animals (CMS COP14) in Samarkand, Uzbekistan.  

Zou (L) is awarded the badge by Aziz Abdukhakimov.

Zou was honored with this recognition for his outstanding research in the field of ecological environment and tourism, as well as his contributions to higher education and Sino-Uzbek exchanges.

He is assistant to the president of BISU, dean of the China Academy of Culture and Tourism, and vice-president of the "Silk Road" International University of Tourism and Cultural Heritage.

Established by the Uzbekistani government on August 10, 2022, the honor is awarded to those who have achieved significant results in the field of ecology and the environment, nature conservation, and rational use of natural resources. A person can be awarded with the honor only once in a lifetime. 

"Tabiat himoyachisi" ("Defender of Nature") badge and certificate