Pilot Free Trade Zone and Biodiversity: Evidence From Birding Records in China

ABSTRACT Biodiversity is the foundation for human survival and development. Based on birdwatching data, this paper describes bird species richness of Chinese regions. Furthermore, this paper empirically examines the relationship between the China pilot free trade zone (PFTZ) and biodiversity. The results show that the establishment of PFTZs promoted the protection of biodiversity. The effects of PFTZ on biodiversity are heterogeneous, and there are significant differences in the richness promotion effect of different bird orders. The establishment of the PFTZs has enhanced the bird species richness in the pilot zone by promoting the reduction of industrial pollution, promoting the construction of urban environmental infrastructure, increasing the urban green area and enhancing public awareness of environmental protection. The PFTZ does not have a radiation effect on the surrounding areas. This study provides an important basis for understanding the environmental effects of trade and policy references for the government to formulate policies to promote the coordinated development of opening up and ecological environmental protection.