"The development of the Lingang 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, professor Rittmann played a pivotal role in the environmental development of Shanghai's Lingang Area.

With the understanding that improving water quality was vital for the area, Rittmann along with Tongji University researchers conducted early studies of Dishui Lake's water system through an environmental project. Their work provided invaluable firsthand data and reports, 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.

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