Reflections on the water cycle and ecological protection and restoration

To fulfill the new requirements of geological work in the modern era and explore the latest advancements, the cutting-edge directions and trends of hydrogeology science, as well as the key scientific issues and major demands in hydrogeology, those contribute to the development of an ecological civilization and effective natural resource management, the national hydrogeological academic symposium took place from October 25th to 27th, 2024. Organized by the China Geological Society and collaboratively hosted by the Hydrogeology Professional Committee, the event featured an insightful speech by Mr. Wang Min, former Deputy Minister of the Ministry of Natural Resources. His perspectives offer valuable insights for current geological endeavours, and we have compiled the content of this speech into this article.