In northwest China’s Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, a big rift lake lies in the southwestern part of the Junggar Basin — Aibi Lake. Sinking deep in the basin, Aibi Lake contains abundant mineral and biological resources. However, these resources have brought disasters to the lake.

Due to large-scale land reclamation, the river's ecosystem that provides water to Aibi Lake was destroyed, which led to a severe shrinking of the lake's size. Aibi Lake played an essential role in regulating the environment; however, by reducing its area from over 1,000 square kilometers to less than 500, it greatly affected the local weather. Residential areas nearby were often struck by sandstorms, and the desertification in this water basin became more and more serious.

In order to protect the local environment of Aibi Lake, the government had taken action. Aibi Lake Wetland Reserve was established in 2000 and was formally nominated as a National Natural Reserve in 2007. A year later, the Aibi Lake Regulations came into force. The local authorities started artificial precipitation, trying to bring back the lake. Now, after a decade's effort, Aibi Lake has again become a perfect place for birds and other animals to live and thrive.

(Cover: VCG)

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