原文链接：https://news.cgtn.com/news/78676a4e77554464776c6d636a4e6e62684a4856/index.html
Now to our series on protecting a key region in Western China - called Sanjiangyuan. It's the source of some of China's greatest rivers. Our reporter Yang Jinghao explores how non-governmental organizations are playing a part in its protection.
Gayer Tudam Damba and his team working for a wildlife protection station on the Qinghai-Tibetan Plateau are preparing for the return of the world's highest-flying birds, bar-headed geese, in the coming spring.
GAYER TUDAM DAMBA Yangtze River Headwaters Ecological Conservation Station "We started our initiative to protect bar-headed geese in 2012. Before this camp was established, we had to live in tents. The birds usually come here around April 20th for breeding, and we look after them until they move on in their migration."
Tudam grew up at the source of China's longest river, the Yangtze, a place higher than 4,700 meters above sea level, teeming with awe-inspiring landscapes.
First working on the railroad, the 40-year-old Tibetan became an environmentalist when a civil organization was established here in 2011.
GAYER TUDAM DAMBA Yangtze River Headwaters Ecological Conservation Station "With the advent of the railroads, the region has seen more visitors than ever before, and they leave a lot of garbage behind. I had intended to protect the environment here, but it was a big challenge for me as an individual. This organization provided me with a great platform to do something I'm interested in."
Its complex sits just beside the Tuotuo River, the origin of the Yangtze.
In the past few years, they've set up several stations for garbage collection along the way to the nearest city, engaging numerous local herders and travelers with various initiatives.
A growing number of volunteers from around the country have also joined in on the effort as well as other programs the NGO puts on.
70-year-old Han Mei is dedicated to the cause. The retired doctor has participated in almost all its programs over the past decade.
HAN MEI Volunteer "Our lives are worthwhile only when we are needed. I don't want to waste my time on meaningless pastimes like playing mahjong. We volunteers are just like sparks of fire. China's environmental protection mission can succeed if more people lend a hand."
And Tudam is happy to see their efforts paying off.
GAYER TUDAM DAMBA Yangtze River Headwaters Ecological Conservation Station "The environment is getting better. Wild animals are not that afraid of people now, and the lakes are clear of garbage again. I feel somewhat fulfilled as I have contributed to this cause, more or less."
Looking ahead to a new decade, Tudam says the progress achieved is just a baby step. He hopes what they're doing won't just impact nature, but inspire environmental awareness among others as well.
Yang Jinghao, CGTN, on the Qinghai-Tibetan Plateau.