In economically and politically turbulent times, biodiversity and environmental priorities often appear particularly threatened. In this unstable atmosphere, we will highlight the importance of long-term monitoring, research, and policy planning from scientists, the government and civil society. We use the setting of China to showcase its ancient civilization, rapid developmental transition, and long-term plans to promote moderate, sustainable growth that conserves its natural resources within the vision of “harmony between humans and nature”. At the same time, with its proximity to several other Southeast Asian countries, we investigate international plans for conservation that cross boundaries and promote cooperative actions in realizing conservation without borders. We will also pursue an inclusive conference through scholarships, by live-streaming plenaries and panels, and by reserving a few slots per symposium for people who are unable to travel so that they can present their science remotely. Ultimately, we are asking how as students, scientists, professionals, and policy-makers, we can persist through these challenging times to achieve shared and substantiative changes for sustainable development and biodiversity.