Jianchu Xu
China | Agroforestry
Jianchu Xu is a distinguished ethnoecologist and internationally recognized fungi taxonomist, celebrated for his pioneering work in sustainable mountain development. As a principal scientist at the World Agroforestry Center and a leading researcher at the Chinese Academy of Sciences, he has spearheaded transformative initiatives that blend indigenous knowledge with cutting-edge research. In 2016, Xu launched the Mountain Futures program, a visionary effort to restore 2,000 hectares of degraded land in Southwest China through innovative agroforestry practices. By promoting bioeconomy solutions rooted in local traditions, his work has advanced food security, natural fiber production and medicinal resource development, earning him global recognition for his contributions to ecological resilience and rural livelihoods.