"The development of the Lin-gang Special Area has been absolutely remarkable," Bruce E Rittmann, a US National Academy of Engineering member, said as he marveled at the once sparsely developed district.

Appointed an honorary professor at Tongji University in 2005, Rittmann has played a pivotal role in the green development of Lin-gang.

With the understanding that improving water quality was vital for the area, Rittmann and other researchers from Tongji University conducted early studies of Dishui Lake's water system. Their work provided invaluable firsthand data, laying the foundation for the lake's environmental protection strategies.

Now 75, Rittmann takes pride in seeing the area flourish, with clean waters supporting recreational activities.

"The water quality today is good. People can enjoy the beautiful view and go out on the lake to do things like boating or surfing. This is a very good outcome," he said.