Wetland protection, migratory birds are priorities in Tibet

Pema Wanggyal used to earn his living as a herdsman in Shongpa, Tibet autonomous region, but three years ago he was given a promotion and a key role in protecting the environment.

His job since 2015 has been as a ranger at Lake Manasarova, known as a "holy lake", and his duties involve safeguarding the natural habitat around the body of water.

Each summer, Pema Wanggyal patrols the lake by motorcycle every two or three days. During the 30-kilometer trip of three to four hours, he stops now and then to peer through binoculars for animal carcasses or damaged grassland. He also collects litter left by tourists and religious pilgrims.