On September 24, a small aircraft crashed in the city of Akidoana, South Matogroso, central west of Brazil, killing all four people on board, one of whom was Chinese architect, Beijing University professor Yuan Conan.

According to local fire departments, the identity of four victims has been confirmed, including one pilot, two Brazilian documentary producers and Yuan Conan, the cause of the accident is still under investigation.

Local media reported that Yu Kongjian and his party were filming a documentary about "Sponge City" in Pantanal Wetland.

Lula sent a tribute to the victims of the accident on the social media on the 24th, saying that in an era of increasingly severe climate change, the concept of "sponge city" put forward by Yu Conan has become a global model, this philosophy combines quality of life and environmental protection, which is exactly what humanity wants and needs in the future.

Brazilian Vice President Alckmin also expressed deep condolences to the victims on social media, and said that Yu Kongjian was famous for putting forward the concept of "sponge city" and made outstanding contributions to sustainable urbanization and biodiversity protection. His spiritual legacy will continue to inspire all those who are committed to environmental protection.