The Lijiang government has taken environmental protection measures to preserve its beautiful environment. It is currently building an eco-protection shield, taking Jade Dragon Snow Mountain, Laojun Mountain, Lugu Lake, Chenghai Lake, Lashi Lake, Jinsha River and Lijiang Ancient City as priorities. The forest coverage rate in Lijiang has grown from 40.33 percent 12 years ago to the current 66.15 percent.

The four major projects - the oasis project, cold lake project, green transportation and forest fire prevention - constitute an all-around system for the development and protection of Jade Dragon Snow Mountain. By far, over 2 billion yuan ($320 million) has gone into infrastructure construction and the mountain protection program.

The Old Town of Lijiang, as a World Cultural Heritage town, is working on building a six-pillar system to protect its environment, which comprises of environmental protection, authenticity protection of cultural heritage, effective legislation, the balance of protection and development, capital investment and a diverse talent pool.