Chinese experts want more protection for ancient fossils

Chinese experts have called for increasing protection of ancient fossils in the wake of ongoing rampant illegal excavations.

Speaking at an ongoing paleontology conference, Shan Huachun, vice director of the China Fossil Preservation Foundation (CFPF), said the country's fossils were being damaged by illegal excavations, China Daily reported.

"Despite China's preservation efforts, illegal excavation is still rampant and is causing great damage to fossil resources. The government needs to do more," she said during the meet being held Guangxi Zhuang region.

A fossil preservation regulation that requires government approval before engaging in fossil excavation was promulgated Jan 1, 2011.

But Shan said the regulation is not enough, adding that the government should learn from the international community in making a more comprehensive legal system for fossil preservation.

Wang Yuan, curator of the Paleozoological Museum of China, said raising public awareness will be instrumental in protecting fossils.

Most people don't know what fossils are and engage in excavation that inevitably damages fossils, he added.