Editor's note: As protection of the planet's flora, fauna and resources becomes increasingly important, China Daily is publishing a series of stories to illustrate the country's commitment to safeguarding the natural world.

China's first independently certified carbon-negative island is continuing to demonstrate positive economic returns, providing a profitable, eco-friendly model for other areas around the country.

Lingshan Island, located 10 kilometers off the coast of Shandong province's Qingdao West Coast New Area in the Yellow Sea, recorded 706 million yuan ($97.3 million) in gross ecosystem product in 2024, a 14.3 percent year-on-year increase, marking three consecutive years of growth, according to Jinan Engineering Consulting Institute.

Gross ecosystem product is the total financial value that nature contributes to the economy.

The 7.66-square-kilometer island, home to 900 people, was certified by the China Quality Certification Centre as China's first "carbon-negative island" on Dec 31, 2021.

According to the certification, in 2020 the island generated 5,668 metric tons of carbon dioxide equivalent from energy use, agriculture and waste treatment, while its forests absorbed 7,001 tons. This resulted in net emissions of negative 1,333 tons.

This milestone was the result of years of sustained effort, with the island undergoing a steady green transition that has reshaped both daily life and economic development.