China’s Zhejiang province was recognized with a Champions of the Earth Award, the UN’s highest environmental honor, on Sept 26.

Zhejiang’s Green Rural Revival Program won in the Inspiration and Action category, one of five categories at the awards, “for the transformation of a once-heavily polluted area of rivers and streams,” according to the website of the United Nations Environment Program.

“This exceptionally successful eco-restoration program shows the transformative power of economic and environmental development together,” said the website.

Delegates from China’s Zhejiang province receive the Champions of the Earth Award in New York on the sidelines of the 73rd UN General Assembly on Sept 26. [Photo/Asianewsphoto]

Diners enjoy delicacies and beautiful scenery at an eco-hotel in Tengtou village, Zhejiang province on April 22, 2018. [Photo/Xinhua]

Tourists look at potted dendrobium plants at a plantation park in Qiping village, Zhejiang province on April 26, 2018. The park was built to boost tourism. [Photo/Xinhua]

Photos show farmers in Shangxiawen village, Zhejiang province planting blueberries to boost their income. [Photo/Xinhua]