A decade-long fishing ban on the Yangtze River, launched in 2020, has sparked a remarkable revival in aquatic life, including the return of native fish species and a growing population of the endangered finless porpoise. With over 230,000 fishermen supported through job retraining and social programs, many have transitioned into new roles such as river conservationists and eco-tourism guides. Biodiversity has rebounded significantly, with 193 fish species recorded by 2024, signaling improved ecosystem health. Yet challenges persist—illegal fishing and pollution still threaten recovery, demanding stronger legal enforcement and long-term monitoring. Initiatives like closing polluting factories and promoting porpoise-centered ecotourism reflect a broader shift toward prioritizing ecological integrity over unchecked development, embodying a 'big protection' vision for the river’s future.