About TEDx, x = independently organized event In the spirit of ideas worth spreading, TEDx is a program of local, self-organized events that bring people together to share a TED-like experience. At a TEDx event, TEDTalks video and live speakers combine to spark deep discussion and connection in a small group. These local, self-organized events are branded TEDx, where x = independently organized TED event. The TED Conference provides general guidance for the TEDx program, but individual TEDx events are self-organized.* (*Subject to certain rules and regulations)
Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) which is composed of plants and animals, originated in China 3,000 years ago. While a crucial part of Chinese culture, the demand for Chinese medicinal materials has risen both in China as well as in international markets. China's economic growth has allowed Chinese consumers with high purchasing power to seek Chinese herbal medicine and other natural health products. The interest in using Chinese herbal medicine for wellness, medical treatments and longevity by people in other parts of the world has created new markets for TCM products.
The development of TCM depends on natural resources so medicinal wildlife resource conservation is a precondition of sustainable use and continuation of TCM. Unfortunately, medicinal natural resources have declined rapidly, with Chinese manufacturing companies searching for large quantities of supplies inside and outside China to produce old-brand products and to develop new products for profit.
The overuse of resources has caused a number of both animal and plant species to become extinct. The conflict between demand and supply is a big challenge for the development of traditional Chinese medicine and biodiversity conservation.
In her presentation, Lixin will address how the TCM profession views these challenges and addresses them to promote healthy people and a healthy planet? She also discusses strategies that can be developed to bring TCM and conservation communities together to work with a shared vision to protect our one and only planet.
