Background

From 2016 to 2018, I dedicated almost three years to this project. At that time, insect protection laws were severely inadequate. I began as an undercover investigative journalist, delving deep into the entire supply chain of the industry. This role eventually led to significant changes through my actions: engaging with various local governments, coordinating with the media, and proposing recommendations to companies like SF Express and Alibaba. These efforts helped drive legal improvements across regions and explore ways to protect fireflies.

Ultimately, the longstanding commercial activities involving the mass capture, sale, and exhibition of live fireflies—activities that had persisted for over a decade—came to an end. Throughout this journey, I faced numerous challenges and breakthroughs. Starting from scratch, I learned and developed educational programs about fireflies, conducted ecological research on their habitats, and later on, ventured into artificial breeding and habitat restoration for fireflies.

                                                                                                                                                                                                                                ——Ping Lei