After the island's ecological restoration project was approved with a planned investment of 515 million yuan ($70.6 million) in 2022, the area started construction the following year, focusing on increasing vegetation coverage, restoring ecosystems and maintaining biodiversity.

The nature reserve has restricted fuel vehicles, promoted clean energy and protected its over 80 percent forest cover. It has also established a three-tiered protection model, a digital monitoring system, the first island environmental court in Shandong, and an ecological compensation fund to encourage public participation.

Additionally, carbon-sink fisheries and marine ranches have been developed.

"The zone will continue to pursue green, low-carbon, and high-quality development, creating a model for ecological protection and sustainable development," said Sun Bin, director of the Lingshan Island Provincial Nature Reserve Development and Protection Center.

These efforts have not only preserved the island's natural beauty but also attracted a growing number of tourists who appreciate the delicate balance between development and conservation.

"In recent years, the ecological environment on the island has been getting better and better. Many tourists are attracted by the 'Carbon-Negative Sea Island' brand," said Wang Huajuan, a resident of Lingshan Island and also a homestay owner.

"We have also been constantly upgrading our homestay from hardware to service, hoping to provide tourists with a better experience," she said.

Qingdao's island charm extends beyond the Lingshan Island. The city is home to over 120 islands, each with unique characteristics.

On the Zhaitang Island, visitors can immerse themselves in the traditional fishing lifestyle. They can stay in cozy B&Bs, explore the island's legends, which tell stories from 2,000 years ago, watch sunsets by the rocky shores, or join in traditional fishing activities.

The Zhucha Island, a 300-year-old fishing village off Qingdao's coast, offers unique volcanic landscapes and pristine beaches. The island boasts numerous scenic spots, including the rare and well-protected crater landform and karst flow in Qingdao, as well as naturally formed fishing platforms, turtle hatching sites, and Yuanyang Cave.

The Zhucha Island also provides luxury resorts with high-end amenities like sky pools, spas, and fine dining restaurants, promising an even more luxurious experience.

"There's no commercial hustle and bustle here, just pure island charm," said a tourist surnamed Zhang from Jinan.

"We arrived by boat early in the morning. My husband went fishing, while I took the kids to watch the sunset and collect shells by the rocks. This kind of slow-paced travel experience is really hard to find," said Zhang.

"The rise of island tourism in Qingdao is a testament to the successful integration of ecological conservation and sustainable development," said Sun, director of the Lingshan Island Provincial Nature Reserve Development and Protection Center.

Sun Qi contributed to the story

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