Zhang said that it is because different interest groups are battling over the legislation.

According to the survey, half of the wetland areas are in less developed western China, which is undergoing urbanization and economic development.

He said that an "eco-red line" is needed to prevent overdevelopment of urbanization and industrialization.

Questions:

1. What percentage of China’s wetlands have vanished over the past decade?

2. The lost wetlands represent what percentage of national territory?

3. What are the key threats today, according to Zhang Yongli?

Answers:

1. Nearly 9 percent.

2. About 3 percent.

3. Pollution, excessive fishing and gathering, land reclamation, invasion of alien species, and occupation by infrastructure.

About the broadcaster:

Anne Ruisi is an editor at China Daily online with more than 30 years of experience as a newspaper editor and reporter. She has worked at newspapers in the U.S., including The Birmingham News in Alabama and City Newspaper of Rochester, N.Y.

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