In 2014, SSCC and a number of biodiversity conservation agencies jointly launched the “China Nature Watch” initiative, dedicated to improving species baseline data and increasing public participation in and mainstreaming of biodiversity conservation.

SSCC collaborates with multiple NGOs, protected areas, research institutions, and nature education organizations to conduct targeted biodiversity surveys across China and establish a shared biodiversity database. Based on these data, the initiative analyzes the current status of conservation and identifies gaps to inform and guide conservation actions. By overlaying environmental impact assessment (EIA) information, it evaluates the impacts of development projects and plans on biodiversity, thereby promoting improvements in capital market practices and policies.

China Nature Watch uses data and information as the foundation for advancing biodiversity conservation. On the one hand, it seeks to improve baseline biodiversity data and promote their effective application by coordinating targeted surveys with diverse partners and establishing a shared biodiversity database. The resulting data are used to assess conservation progress, identify gaps, and guide conservation efforts. On the other hand, the initiative uses data and information as an entry point to broaden public and cross-sector engagement in biodiversity conservation and promote its mainstreaming through innovative methods and tools. These efforts include overlaying information on development projects and plans to assess their impacts on biodiversity, as well as promoting improvements in financial investment decisions and policies to better integrate biodiversity considerations.

In addition, through case studies and scientific research, Shan Shui systematically assesses the current status of Other Effective Area-Based Conservation Measures (OECMs) in China, identifies, documents, and shares exemplary practices and lessons learned, supports the development of OECM standards and mechanisms, and raises awareness and understanding of OECMs among relevant stakeholders.