Huo Yi — Environment and Health Division, Beijing Aodaqing

Standing Firm on the Frontline and Guarding the First Gate of Environmental Protection

As an on-site environmental sampling worker, I have remained at the grassroots frontline since I began working in 2013. Over the past decade and more, I have witnessed the tremendous changes in China's ecological and environmental protection work and have personally experienced the heavy responsibilities on the shoulders of grassroots environmental professionals. Every day, I carry heavy sampling equipment and travel between urban and rural areas. Whether under the scorching sun or in biting cold wind, I must complete every sampling task on time. Sometimes, in order to obtain nighttime or early-morning data, my colleagues and I have to stay on duty all night in sub-zero temperatures. Cotton-padded coats, boxed meals, and simple temporary rest spots are the epitome of our daily work. Despite the hardship, it is precisely these ordinary yet extraordinary efforts that have laid a solid foundation for environmental monitoring.

Scientific and Standardized Operations to Ensure Every Piece of Data Is Authentic and Reliable

Sampling work may appear simple, but the responsibility is significant. The collection, preservation, and transportation of every sample must be carried out strictly in accordance with specifications. Even a minor negligence may affect the authenticity of monitoring data and thereby influence environmental decision-making. Over the past decade, I have always adhered to the principle of "scientific, standardized, and accurate" work, controlling every procedure well and ensuring that every piece of data can truly reflect environmental quality conditions.

I am well aware that only by guarding the first gate well can subsequent analysis and governance have a basis to rely on. Therefore, no matter how busy or tired, I dare not slacken in the slightest, and I safeguard the environmental protection cause with a professional and dedicated attitude.

Advancing with the Times and Continuously Improving Professional Capabilities

As ecological civilization construction continues to advance, environmental monitoring technology is also developing rapidly. From traditional manual equipment to modern automated instruments, from bailer water sampling to electric well purging pumps, every technological upgrade is a new test of our capabilities. I always maintain enthusiasm for learning, proactively master various new equipment and new standards, continuously improve myself in practice, and grow in step with the times.

I believe that only by continuously improving professional skills can we better adapt to the requirements of ecological and environmental protection work in the new era. This enterprising spirit has not only brought me personal growth but has also brought new vitality and momentum to the team.

Witnessing Change and Contributing to a Beautiful China

Ten years ago, black and odorous water bodies and smoggy weather still frequently troubled people, but today, blue skies and white clouds, clear waters and green banks have become the norm in cities. Behind these changes is the silent dedication of countless frontline environmental professionals. Seeing the continuous improvement of environmental quality makes every hardship worthwhile, and every drop of sweat shine brightly.

As an environmental professional in the new era, I deeply feel the glory of the mission and the weight of the responsibility. I will continue to take root at the grassroots level and guard clear waters and blue skies with practical actions. With the joint efforts of the whole society, Beautiful China is steadily becoming a reality, and all of this is inseparable from the silent persistence and steadfast pursuit of every grassroots environmental professional.