In Yunnan, SSCC focuses on key biodiversity areas, including the Lancang River Basin, the China–Myanmar border region, and the Three Parallel Rivers region of the Hengduan Mountains. With a focus on the conservation of rare species and their habitats, including primates such as the Yunnan snub-nosed monkey and large felids such as the snow leopard, SSCC carries out systematic species monitoring and community-based forest conservation and restoration for multiple benefits. Through initiatives such as establishing community conserved areas, deploying infrared camera monitoring networks, and restoring fire-affected areas, Shan Shui works to safeguard the forest ecosystems and key ecological corridors of northwestern Yunnan.

Forest ecosystems play a vital role in water conservation, biodiversity protection, and climate change mitigation. Forest conservation and restoration for multiple benefits aims to restore and enhance ecosystem services while protecting wildlife habitats. Through science-based restoration, monitoring, and evaluation, these efforts seek to ensure that forest resources and ecosystem functions generate positive impacts for biodiversity, community development, and climate change mitigation. By engaging communities in conservation initiatives—including vegetation restoration, scientific research and monitoring, natural resource management, carbon sequestration projects, and the development of forest-friendly products—Shan Shui seeks to ensure that local conservation stewards share in the ecological, economic, and social benefits that forests provide.