“Is birch sap really as nutritious as people say?” “Do different tree species and growing environments vary in their carbon storage capacity?” On September 24th, during the National Science Popularization Month, Northeast Forestry University (NEFU) held a roundtable titled “Forests That Safeguard Life-From Discovery to Sharing.” Four NEFU experts in ecology-related fields explored key topics on the close relationship between forests and humanity, sharing scientific insights and promoting ecological civilization.

Co-hosted by the Chinese Society of Forestry, the Heilongjiang Association for Science and Technology, and NEFU, the event aimed to implement further the National Action Plan for Enhancing Public Scientific Literacy, promote the spirit of science and scientists, and contribute to building a strong nation through science and technology.

The event was attended by Sheng Liming, Vice President of the Heilongjiang Association for Science and Technology, Yu Haipeng, member of the Standing Committee of the CPC NEFU Committee and Vice President of NEFU, Ma Sha, Director of the Science Popularization Department of the Chinese Society of Forestry and Senior Engineer, along with faculty members and students from related colleges.

During the session, Professor Tang Zhonghua focused on birch forests, explaining that their “white coat” is formed by betulin, a natural “protective armor,” and introduced the nutritional value of birch sap, known as the “forest beer”. Professor Li Aiqin provided an accessible explanation of forest carbon sinks, describing how forests “lock” carbon dioxide in their branches, leaves, roots, and trunks. She noted that carbon storage capacity varies across tree species and environments and encouraged the public to participate through tree planting and low-carbon lifestyles. Professor Cao Yukun discussed the significance and necessity of the national “dual carbon” strategy, which is carbon peaking and carbon neutrality, pointing out that actions such as saving electricity and waste sorting are essential to achieving low-carbon goals. Professor Wang Enheng emphasized the forest’s vital role in forming and conserving black soil, noting that mutual protection between forests and black soil is key to ecological civilization. She guided the audience to reflect on the harmonious coexistence between humanity and nature.

Teachers and students at the event said the four experts’ presentations made forest knowledge more concrete and accessible, helped non-specialists better understand the importance of harmony between humans and nature, and encouraged everyone to contribute to the development of ecological civilization.

“Today’s event embodies the university’s mission to promote forestry knowledge among the public. Moving forward, NEFU will continue to leverage its disciplinary strengths to build stronger platforms for science popularization and inspire more people to take part in forest conservation,” said Yu Haipeng, Member of the Standing Committee of the CPC NEFU Committee and Vice President of NEFU.

Sheng Liming, Vice President of the Heilongjiang Association for Science and Technology, spoke highly of the event and expressed the hope that NEFU would continue to deepen its efforts in ecological science communication and contribute more to building a green ecological barrier in Heilongjiang.

Ma Sha, Director of the Science Popularization Department of the Chinese Society of Forestry, expressed her anticipation for further cooperation with NEFU to develop more high-quality science popularization initiatives and promote forestry science as a key vehicle for advancing ecological civilization.

Please scan the QR code below to watch the recorded livestream.