Rare-earth center to host forum on prairie ecology

The heavy-industry city of Baotou is sharpening its appreciation of its prairie heritage, as it will host the 2014 International Prairie Forum on Aug 30 to brainstorm ideas and suggestions on the development of prairie lands.

The three-day event, held at Damaoqi county in Baotou, is the city's first international prairie-themed forum, where participants will discuss strategies of prairie ecology and culture as well as development.

"The goals of the forum are to consider the challenges to grassland ecosystem under human activities, to raise awareness of the significance of nomadic civilization for human civilization and the importance of improving the natural environment and cultural heritage," said the forum statement.

Baotou is the largest industrial city in Inner Mongolia and the largest rare-earth industrial base in China. The balance between nature, culture protection and industrial development has been under increasing scrutiny in recent years. In 2014, the city launched a campaign to build Beautiful Baotou, to create a long-term mechanism for environment and culture protection.

Nomadic civilization, known as the greatest culture on prairie, is highly valued. "The significance of nomadic culture to grassland protection is completely appreciated," the forum statement said.

The forum is expected to be an annual event in Baotou beginning this year.