Category

2,000 Years of Living with Water
Urban Biodiversity & Ecological Design in Chengdu

2-Day Field Experience | Chengdu, China, Ages 10+, School Groups, Customisable Programme

Urban Biodiversity Nature-Based Solutions Water Sustainability Field Research Design Thinking

Programme Overview

As the largest city in western China, Chengdu is known not only for its rich history and world-famous giant pandas, but also for its relaxed pace of life and unique relationship with water.

For more than 2,000 years, the city's rivers have shaped where people live, how communities grow and how nature continues to thrive alongside urban development.

Inspired by the United Nations Decade on Ecosystem Restoration (2021–2030), this programme explores how Chengdu is building a more nature-positive future — from the ancient Dujiangyan Irrigation System to pioneering ecological restoration projects today.

Through field research, water quality investigations and collaborative design workshops, students discover how one of China's most liveable cities is reimagining the relationship between people, water and biodiversity.

Chengdu
Programme 1
Programme 2
Programme 3

Key Highlights

Visit the UNDP SPARK Lab

Go behind the scenes at the UNDP Sustainable Development Innovation Lab to explore the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and discover how innovation is helping cities respond to today's environmental challenges.

Discover Chengdu's Water Story

Visit the world's first water ecology education park and discover how more than two thousand years of water management continue to shape one of China's most liveable cities.

Redesign a River for Nature

Work in teams to develop your own river restoration proposal, applying ecological thinking and nature-based solutions to reimagine an urban waterway.

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Itinerary

Urban Nature · Water · Sustainability
Before You Travel | Online Orientation
Meet your programme leaders, explore Chengdu's unique relationship with water and biodiversity, and prepare for your field experience.
Day 1 Chengdu
Water, Biodiversity & Urban Innovation
Visit the UNDP SPARK Lab to explore the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), then discover how Chengdu's Living Water Park uses ecological design to restore urban waterways. Conduct water quality testing and investigate the biodiversity of the Funan River.
Day 2 Chengdu
Reimagining Urban Rivers
Explore the Xiaojiahe riverside neighbourhood to discover how Chengdu's slower pace of life and people-centred public spaces are closely connected to its waterways.

Safeguarding & Practical Care

The programme is designed with student wellbeing and safety in mind. All routes, venues and activities are planned in advance, with trained staff accompanying students throughout the journey.

Safety

  • Staff-to-student ratio of at least 1:5
  • Programme leaders, subject mentors and safety coordinators on site
  • 24-hour emergency response
  • Pre-inspected venues and activity plans
    Licensed transport and professional drivers

Health

  • Full programme insurance coverage
  • Meals included, with local food experiences in Chengdu
  • Dietary requirements and allergies accommodated with advance notice

Accommodation

  • Accommodation arranged in quality hotels or guesthouses, depending on location

Detailed safeguarding arrangements, insurance information and risk assessment procedures are available upon request.

FAQ

Who is this programme for?

This programme is designed for students interested in urban biodiversity, water sustainability, ecological design and field research.

What will students produce?

Students will produce a river restoration proposal, urban biodiversity map, or nature-based design concept.

Is prior field research experience required?

No prior field research experience is required. The programme provides guidance and support throughout.

How is student safety managed?

Student safety is managed with a staff-to-student ratio of at least 1:5, 24-hour emergency response, and pre-inspected venues.

What is typically included in the programme arrangement?

The programme includes accommodation, meals, transportation, activities, and insurance coverage.

Can dietary requirements be accommodated?

Yes, dietary requirements and allergies can be accommodated with advance notice.

Can we receive a full itinerary and fee details?

Yes, the full itinerary and fee details are available upon request through our contact form.

Ready to Learn More?

Request the full itinerary or speak to our programme team about group bookings, school partnerships and customised learning journeys.

Contact Us